Fin's Fish Guide
The Marbled spiny eel (Mastacembelus armatus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Mastacembelidae that grows up to 90 cm.
Description
The zig-zag eel is a large spiny eel of the family Mastacembelidae from South and Southeast Asia. The species grows to about 90 cm and has an elongate, eel-like body with a pointed, fleshy snout and a handsome brown pattern of wavy, zig-zagging lines, to which the English name refers. It inhabits a variety of waters, from highland streams to lowland wetlands, and often buries itself in sand or mud by day. As a nocturnal predator it hunts insect larvae, worms, small fishes and crustaceans. Along the back is a row of separate, sharp spines before the dorsal fin that can give puncture wounds; handle the fish with care.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Marbled spiny eel?
The Marbled spiny eel has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a flame-patterned pattern. Eel-like body with a zigzag pattern; a row of separate, sharp dorsal spines and burrows into sand.
Where does the Marbled spiny eel live?
The Marbled spiny eel lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. South and Southeast Asia; mountain streams to lowland swamps.
How big does the Marbled spiny eel get?
The Marbled spiny eel grows to a maximum of about 90 cm.
Is the Marbled spiny eel dangerous to humans?
No, the Marbled spiny eel is harmless to humans. The stout, sharp fin spines can cause painful puncture or cut wounds; handle the fish with care. Clean the wound, let it bleed, and seek medical care if pain or infection increases.
Is the Marbled spiny eel edible?
Yes, the Marbled 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 Mastacembelus
More from the family Mastacembelidae
Want the complete picture on the Marbled spiny eel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Marbled spiny eel is one of 12,519 species in the app.