Fin's Fish Guide
The Belted spiny eel (Macrognathus circumcinctus) is a freshwater fish of the family Mastacembelidae that grows up to 29 cm.
Description
The belted spiny eel is an eel-shaped spiny eel (Mastacembelidae) from fresh water of Southeast Asia, including the Mekong and Chao Phraya basins. The species grows to about 29 cm and has a strongly elongate, light-brown body with dark ring bars, a row of separate spinelets before the dorsal fin and a pointed, mobile snout. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it buries itself in soft sand by day and searches at night for insect larvae, worms and small crustaceans. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Belted spiny eel?
The Belted spiny eel has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a vertical stripes pattern.
Where does the Belted spiny eel live?
The Belted spiny eel lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Asia: Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand
How big does the Belted spiny eel get?
The Belted spiny eel grows to a maximum of about 29 cm.
Is the Belted spiny eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Belted spiny eel is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Macrognathus
More from the family Mastacembelidae
Want the complete picture on the Belted spiny eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Belted spiny eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone