Chainlink Eel

The Chainlink Eel (Echidna catenata), also known as the Chain Moray Eel, is a captivating addition to marine aquariums, recognized for its distinctive chain-like pattern and manageable size.

Quick Stats:

• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive
• Color Form: White to yellow body with brown, black, or gray chain markings
• Diet: Carnivore
• Reef Compatible: With caution
• Water Conditions:
  • Specific Gravity: 1.020–1.025
  • Temperature: 74–82°F
  • dKH: 8–12
  • pH: 8.1–8.4
• Maximum Size: Approximately 30 inches
• Family: Muraenidae
• Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons

Overview: The Chainlink Eel features a white to yellow body adorned with intricate brown, black, or gray chain-like patterns. Reaching up to 30 inches in length, it is among the smaller moray eel species, making it suitable for larger home aquariums. This eel is primarily nocturnal, often hiding among rocks and crevices during the day and becoming more active at night. While it poses no direct threat to corals, it may consume small fish and invertebrates, so caution is advised when housing it in reef setups.

Care Tips:

• Aquarium Setup: Provide a tank of at least 125 gallons with ample live rock formations to create caves and hiding spots. Ensure rock structures are stable to prevent collapse, as the eel may dislodge unsecured decorations.
• Feeding: Offer a varied diet of meaty foods such as fish, shrimp, and squid. Feeding 3 to 4 times per week is sufficient. Initially, live foods may be necessary to entice feeding, but the eel can typically be weaned onto frozen or prepared foods over time.
  Aquarium Domain
• Compatibility: Suitable tank mates include larger, robust fish that are not easily viewed as prey. Avoid housing with small fish or crustaceans, as they may be at risk of predation.

Fun Fact: Despite their somewhat intimidating appearance, Chainlink Eels are known to become quite accustomed to their environment and can recognize their caregivers, often emerging from hiding during feeding times.

By providing appropriate tank conditions and a suitable diet, the Chainlink Eel can be a fascinating and resilient addition to your marine aquarium.