Strophidon sathete

7. April 2010

Strophidon sathete Strophidon sathete

For the first time now we have some specimens of the largest moray eel of the world in stock: Strophidon sathete. This species originates from brackish water regions. They inhabit the very same habitats (lower reaches of rivers) as the common freshwater moray, Gymnothorax tile. Both can be kept like scats or monos: they are completely tolerant for both pure freshwater and pure marine water (euryhaline), but for long time keeping it is highly recommended to add 10-20 grams seesalt/litre water.

Against conspecifics this species is very peaceful. However, they try to feed on any other fish that seem to fit their mouth (and the mouth is really large!). Thus it is best to keep them in a one-species tank. S. sathete can reach the amazing total length of around 4 metres! It is so rare and relatively expensive in the ornamental fish trade, because they have to be collected by hand and in single specimens. They live very secretely and have to be burried out of the ground. In the aquarium they also tend to hide very much in the beginning, but they learn that the keeper means food after some time. The tank must be absolutely safely covered, otherwise the morays will break out. They feed on large meat, like whole fish, pieces of fish, shrimps, etc…

For our customers: the fish has code 456134 on our stocklist. Please note that we exclusively supply the wholesale trade.

Lexikon: Strophidon: not explained in the original description, but probably from ancient Greek, meaning “with teeth turned backwards”. sathete: after the vernacular name of the species in Bengal.

Text & photos: Frank Schäfer

Angaben zum Tier
Herkunft Indien / India
Verfügbare Größe in cm 30-50