Snowflake Eel Won't Eat...help Please

gordruls

Member
I have a 2' Snowflake EEL that ate well before moving his tank to a new location. All water levels are fine. He used to eat shrimp and now he smells it and goes away. it's been over a Month since he has eaten. Is there anything else any of you feed your EEL? I am out of idea's.. Thanks
 

nicetry

Active Member
The good news is that it's not uncomon for eels to fast for periosds of time. A month is not too long and the eel will be fine not having eaten for a few weeks. It may have been the stress of the move which triggered the hunger strike. If the eel is otherwise healthy, it should resume eating on it's own. Shrimp is okay, but like any marine organism, having a varied diet is best. Try some small scallops, pieces of squid or octo. Even some pieces of clam might work.
You could also try some live foods; ghost shrimp sometimes entice predators. If you want to really simulate it's natural diet, and have a few bucks to spend, toss in a couple of small sally lightfoot crabs or mithrax crabs. Overall, I wouldn't worry too much. Watch for listlessness, weight loss, or other symptoms.
Post your water parameters (real numbers). As tough as eels are, they can also react to deteriorating water. What size tank is he in and is there enough rock for him to totally conceal itself? Other tankmates?
 

gordruls

Member
Thanks for the reply..I did take some rock out when I moved him. He is in a 125 gal tank with some damsels. He has been living in a large sunken ship I have in there. I may want to put some of the rock back. I also will try some of the food ideas you suggested.
 
Top