How big of a tank do you need for ribbon eels?
The Ribbon Eel is difficult to care for and it is to be kept by advanced aquarists. The tank should be at least 4 feet long, with a minimum of 55 gallons. Unlike other eels, the Ribbon Eel is very thin and slender, producing less waste than a deep bodied eel, so they do not need as large of a tank.
Will a ribbon eel eat my fish?
Blue ribbon eels are not likely to become a predator in your tank because of their small size. They are much smaller than most other eels, so they are not threatening to other fish. They will only eat fish that can fit in their mouths. Although a bit risky, it is possible to house them with larger eels.
How often do you feed ribbon eel?
Every 3 days is a good rule of thumb. They will let you know when they are hungry by becoming more active. Usually feed them their full, as much as they want, they will retreat when they are full. When small feeding may be more frequent, and when more mature once a week would be fine.
Why do ribbon eels keep their mouths open?
4. They might look angry, but they’re just breathing! Like moray eels (and unlike most fish), the ribbon eel has to open and close its mouth in order to circulate water towards its gills (in order to breathe).
How do you care for a ribbon eel?
Your water quality should be perfect. No ammonia, nitrates, nitrites, and a pH of around 8.3 will ensure a healthy eel. Keep your temperatures between 72-78 degrees Fahrenheit and dKH between eight and twelve. They require a minimum of forty gallons since they are still rather long.
Are ribbon eels Coral safe?
They will get out with out a cover and are reef safe but they will eat fish and shrimp..
How do ribbon eels protect themselves?
Ribbon eels have long protruding nostrils which are almost seahorse like in appearance. Ribbon eels use their nostrils to sense vibrations in the water which helps them to hunt and defend themselves.
Why do ribbon eels always have their mouths open?
How big of an aquarium do you need for a ribbon eel?
Scott Michael recommends keeping them first in a smaller tank (about 30 gallons) so that you can more easily keep a high concentration of feeder fish to allow the ribbon eel to eat well and acclimate to life in a home aquarium, and to support the training to take on new foods, before introducing them to the big tank ( Michael 2001 ).
How did the Blue Ribbon eel get its name?
The ribbon eel or Blue ribbon eel is a marine water animal that has a fascinating life cycle. Their body is long, thin, and laterally compressed like a Ribbon. That’s why they got this common name. They also have continuous pelvic and dorsal fins on their body.
Is it dangerous to feed a ribbon eel?
Are ribbon eels dangerous? No, generally they are peaceful animals and can live with other saltwater species. But if you feed them by hand, accidentally they will bite your hand. Because ribbon eels have poor vision.
Can you put shrimp in a ribbon eel’s mouth?
Rule #1: If you have fish or shrimp that will fit into your ribbon eel’s mouth, it may be more compatible with the digestive tract of the eel than with the water surrounding the community reef you created.