Fin's Fish Guide
The Burmese spiny eel (Macrognathus zebrinus) is a freshwater fish of the family Mastacembelidae that grows up to 46 cm.
Description
The Burmese spiny eel is an eel-shaped spiny eel (Mastacembelidae) from fresh water of Myanmar in Southeast Asia. The species grows to about 46 cm and has a strongly elongate, light-brown body with dark, zebra-like crossbars, 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 Burmese spiny eel?
The Burmese spiny eel has a snake-like body, is mainly brown and shows a vertical stripes pattern.
Where does the Burmese spiny eel live?
The Burmese spiny eel lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Asia: Myanmar, Nepal
How big does the Burmese spiny eel get?
The Burmese spiny eel grows to a maximum of about 46 cm.
Is the Burmese spiny eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Burmese 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.
Is the Burmese spiny eel edible?
Yes, the Burmese spiny eel is commonly eaten.
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 Burmese spiny eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Burmese spiny eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.