Eel - Tessalata
The Tessalata Eel, also known as the Honeycomb Moray Eel or Laced Moray Eel (Gymnothorax favagineus), is a large and striking species of moray eel found in the Indo-Pacific region. Keeping a Tessalata Eel in an aquarium requires careful consideration due to its size and specific needs. Here are the general requirements:
Tank size: Tessalata Eels require a very large tank due to their potential size. A tank with a capacity of at least 300 gallons (1,136 liters) is recommended to provide ample space for their growth and movement. It should also have a length of 8 feet or more to accommodate their length.
Water parameters: Maintain stable water conditions within the following parameters: temperature between 72-78°F (22-26°C), pH around 8.1-8.4, and specific gravity between 1.020 and 1.025. Regular monitoring of ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels is important, with zero levels being the goal.
Tank setup: Tessalata Eels require a well-decorated tank with plenty of hiding spots and caves. Utilize live rock formations, PVC pipes, or other suitable structures to create hiding places for the eel. Ensure good water flow and efficient filtration to maintain water quality.
Lighting: Tessalata Eels do not have specific lighting requirements. They typically spend most of their time hidden in caves or crevices. However, providing moderate lighting that replicates natural day and night cycles can be beneficial.
Diet: Tessalata Eels are carnivorous and primarily feed on small fish and crustaceans in the wild. Offer them a varied diet consisting of high-quality, meaty foods such as live or frozen fish, squid, shrimp, and other marine invertebrates. It's important to provide a diet that meets their nutritional needs.
Tankmates: Tessalata Eels are predatory and should be kept in a species-only tank. They may attack or eat smaller fish and invertebrates, making them incompatible with most tankmates. It's crucial to avoid keeping them with small or delicate species.
Caution: Tessalata Eels are known for their aggressive behavior and can be territorial. Due to their size and strength, handling or working around them requires extreme caution. Provide a secure lid or cover on the tank to prevent escapes, as eels are known for their escape artist abilities.
Given their specific requirements and challenging nature, keeping a Tessalata Eel requires experience and expertise in large predator aquariums. It's highly recommended to consult with experienced aquarists or marine biologists before attempting to keep a Tessalata Eel in captivity.
