Eels

[jeff and grey]

Hi,
I'm starting a fish/invert tank that will become a reef tank. My son has his heart set on an eel, preferably a snowflake. I like giant clams and inverts. Any chance they'll work together? Is it worth the chance?

 

[marine fanatic]

Hello,
How long has your tank been up and running? If it is still a fairly new tank I would avoid getting a snowflake eel for now. They can be very sensitive to water changes and if your tank is still cycling you might lose him to a spike. I have a 14" snowflake in my tank and he is one ODD critter. Even though they are fascinating creatures, let your son know that they are really seclusive and will hide most of the day unless hungry. I have noticed him going after some of the blue-legs before so I fed him more often and that seemed to keep him away from the crabs. If you are ready for a snowflake, make sure you test your water often to avoid any sudden changes that will effect him (I check mine every day....ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, sg, temp, pH)
How much live rock do you have? The more you have, the better chance he will thrive. If you are still setting the tank up and start adding live rock for a future snowflake, place it so there are ALOT of caverns and holes for him to roam around..that will increase his activity and allow you to see him more often.
Hope it helps ya

 

[jeff and grey]

Thanks.
It is a new tank in the planning stage. Sounds like if it is well fed it might be alright.

 

[fallen04]

i have had a snowflake eel for over 8 years and she is my favorite. she is bulletproof she has gone carpetsurfing she has jumped tanks she jumped into my 55 freshwater for a little while. i have her trained to where you tap on the glass and she comes to the surface for food. i put 4" pvc pipe along the back of my 240 and covered it with rock and sand so she has her own area to travel in and feel safe get one when you can and get a young one with personality