Dragon Eel Comp

FAQs about Dragon Moray Eels: Compatibility

Related Articles: The Hawaiian Dragon Eel Enchelycore pardalis by Marco Lichtenberger, Moray Eels, Zebra Morays, Snowflake Morays, Ribbon Morays, The "Freshwater" Moray Eels, Freshwater Moray Eels by Marco Lichtenberger, Other Marine Eels

Golden Arothron puffer 7/9/18
Hello crew,
I have the opportunity to rescue a golden puffer from an overstocked tank. But I wanted to see if anyone on your team could see any potential issues.
My tank is slightly under 180 gallons acrylic 72x24x22 with a 60 gallon sump with skimmer, live rock and lots of macro algae. The current inhabitants are a 27” dragon moray Enchelycore pardalis sp. and a 4.5 inch yellow tank. <Tang likely>
The golden puffer is approximately 7 inches.
It was housed with another dragon moray along with several other large angels without issues.
Do you see an issue with my set up or stocking levels?
<The size, shape of the tank should work, and the fact that the Moray hasn't consumed the Tang is propitious. I think you should be fine here>
Thank you
Brad
<Welcome. Bob Fenner>
Re: Golden Arothron puffer 7/10/18
Thanks Bob
This moray eel seems to be very docile indeed “ famous last words”
<Mmm; yes... the genus Enchelycore are changeable temperament wise....>
The two have been together for a few years without any issue. Hopefully the puffer will behave himself too.
<As it got along with a Moray before.... am hopeful it will be here as well. BobF>

Dragon Moray in a 90 gallon... no reading, using WWM 5/12/16
Hello,
<Brad>
I would like to have your thought on this set up. A dragon moray with a school of damsels in a 90 gallon FOWLR.
<.... Nah; too small; and the damsels, food.... READ here:
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/HIDragonMorayArt.htm
and the linked files above>
The tanks filtration consists of a 55 gallon sump with an oversized skimmer ( rated for 180 gallons) and some live rock.
I don't plan on any other fish but might like to add an additional medium moray ( Jeweled(Muraena lentiginosa) or Golden tail).
<No....>
I know larger is always better but I have this tank established and ready to go.
Oh and one more thing, the tank currently has a yellow Edged moray (<http://researcharchive.calacademy.org/research/ichthyology/catalog/fishcatget.asp?genid=384> Gymnothorax
<http://researcharchive.calacademy.org/research/ichthyology/catalog/fishcatget.asp?spid=57813> flavimarginatus
)in it. I had ordered a Jeweled (Muraena lentiginosa) but received this one instead, but once it arrived in the mail there was no turning it away.
<I'd stick w/ this fish here. Not add others>
Seller wouldn't take it back either So I have found another home. Have you ever housed one of these eels?
<PLEASE; use, as in search on WWM before writing us>
I have had many Morays in the past and this guy seems very docile. He is only 20" now but seems to be growing every
time I look at him. Also I feed my eels fresh fish and squid from whole foods.
Do you see any issues or concerns I need to know feeding grocery store sea food?
<Read>
Thank you for taking the time to read this.
Sincerely Brad
<As sincerely, Bob Fenner>

Question for Marco about eels 11/20/15
Dear Marco,
<Bill.>
I currently have a 72x24x24 tank with a 72x20x20 sump with lots of LR. Huge skimmer and plenty of flow in the tank with a gyre pump and 2 MP's.
The tank's LR formations were built specifically for eels, all caves from end to end.
<Sounds very good.>
Currently I have a 27" Japanese Dragon eel in the tank all by himself for 2 months now so would I be able to add another one?
<This depends a lot on the specific individual. Some accept another eel, some don't. Hard to give a proper prognosis. When both eels are added together and none has established its territory it's more probable to work out. Adding another eel months or years later is more risky in general. If it was my tank and choice, I'd keep only keep one dragon eel per tank. In fact that's exactly what I do with my larger eels.>
And if so, what size?
<Same size when referring to E. pardalis, slightly larger when considering some Gymnothorax species.>
If not, would I be able to add any other kind of eel?
<In general the same risk as with another E. pardalis.>
I cannot rearrange the rocks!
<Also see http://www.wetwebmedia.com/HIDragonMorayArt.htm and http://www.wetwebmedia.com/DragEelCompF.htm and
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/moraycompfaqs.htm for more cases/opinions.>
Thanks for your help, Bill
<Welcome. Marco.>
Sent from my iPhone while drinking & driving
<:-)>

Dragon Eel, Dogface puffer, Volitans Lionfish (mix) question... Earl Clay Tres chimes in! 9/28/15
Hey guys. Long time reader, first time questioner here.
<Heya>
About a week ago I introduced a 18" Dragon Eel and a 6" Dogface puffer to a 150 gallon tank without any other fish.
<Be sure to use a powerful skimmer and possibly mechanical filtration for these messy carnivores. Fascinating but messy!> The next day I added a Volitans Lionfish to the tank that was slightly smaller than the puffer.
<This is likely to be a dangerous mix. As you mention, a puffer can be a fin nipper and worse...eels and lions are relatively slow, low-key animals who are easy pickings for a puffer. Puffers (and Tetradontiforms generally) are smart, relative to fish, and have personality. This can backfire when they realize they are in there with two captive compatriots. Those teeth are well equipped for tearing up soft skin, fins, and even biting through the spines of a lionfish...neither of which are likely to outmaneuver a puffer long-term. If the puffer decides to get mean, neither of those fish has any protection from it. A
puffer can be like a battering ram with a beak and 6" is big enough to be ornery and set in its ways...time will tell how this particular one will act. I have met several people with nasty scars from puffers and triggers.
Keep an eye on your fingers. ;) >
The eel and puffer acclimated very well and began eating and swimming in the open within a day. They even for lack
of a better term, "cuddle" together throughout the day and the puffer even sleeps in the same cave as the eel. <Based on your decor/rockwork in my experience, fish, especially largish ones that may have a harder time finding good cover than typically smaller ones might, will gravitate toward the same "best" cover.>
The lionfish on the other hand was very timid and wouldn't eat for 5 days.
<Not unusual, I recommend having the source of purchase feed a lion and see what or if it's eating. You may have to wean
it off of live food. I have had luck with mysis shrimp for this.>
Last night we found the lionfish with bites taken out of his belly, and unfortunately he has passed away.
<Sorry to hear it. The "forensic case" is clear here.>
We believe it was the puffer that did this, not the eel.
<Simple enough to tell: what do the bites look like exactly? Pointed teeth or a "beak"? Pictures would help here...I recommend taking some post-mortem photos or even putting the fish in a freezer (!) if you want to resolve these mystery murders or diseases more concretely.>
I have read on your site, unfortunately after the fact, that puffers can nip at lionfish fins.
Is this amount of aggression towards the lionfish normal, though?
<Common.>
Are the puffer and eel really "buddies" at this point, or are they displaying some sort of "dominance game" with each other? <Fish act like "dive buddies" all the time for a variety of reasons. I suspect at least part of it is as I referred to before, they are both doing the same things for similar reasons and their "hanging out" is a natural result. How much does the eel move around the tank? They are normally pretty sedentary and should hole up in a semi-permanent home. This seems like they are simply new fish to the tank that are investigating, taking advantage of the other's discoveries (escape routes, discovering food).>
Any insight would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, Evan.
<Sad to hear of your loss but with experience comes knowledge. My advice is to study up as much as you can, especially with large possibly volatile predators, before adding a new fish. WWM has some pretty in-depth info on triggers and puffers. Another key thing with these guys is order of introduction: least to most "mean".
The lionfish should have gone in first, then the eel, then the puffer imo.
The idea is to let the more timid or vulnerable guys to establish themselves first and also when the new ones come along they have not already entrenched themselves in a tank they consider their turf to defend.
I hope this helps! -E.C.3>

Re: Dragon Eel, Dogface puffer, Volitans Lionfish question 9/30/15
Thank you for such a quick detailed response...I greatly appreciate it.
<Glad to help> I have enclosed a photo of the lionfish (post-mortem). As stated before, both fish eat like pigs. Is it possible to overfeed the eel like the puffer?
<That is an issue. Eels should eat every 3 days or so.
Target fed with a feeder stick, ideally chopped up into strips. Luckily puffers will go to town on the same kinds of food so that's a bit of convenience...I have always supplied most of the food for those who eat large, meaty stuff via simply dicing various raw frozen seafood (shrimp, squid, clam) and supplement it with Selcon every so often...better food for far less money). But target feed eels if necessary and only 2-3 times a week.> Dragon Eel has a few "regular" spots it hangs out in. Some it is completely covered, and others only partially. He comes out as if to "say hello" whenever you approach the tank. This is the main reason bought this specimen, for his personality.
<All sounds great!>
He does not hide all day and move only at night...he acts the same in my tank as he did at the LFS. The puffer will come greet you also, and rests in a few regular spots through out the day as well as free swimming in the powerheads.
<Settling in well. There is that puffer personality...they learn faces and will beg like dogs.>
Should I for the safety of the Dragon Eel and return the Dogface Puffer?
 I hear many different views on species only tanks for Dragon Eels vs. compatibility with larger aggressive fish. <Check out the f.a.q.s on WWM, there are several people's experiences with this same issue.>
More fuel for the fire...would a 6" Humu Humu Trigger be a time bomb to ad, with or without the puffer? Thanks again for your time and insight, Evan
<A puffer and a trigger is a pretty good combo, they are rough customers who can hold their own. I may be biased because Hawai'i's state fish is my favorite marine animal :) Humus are known to be generally laid back for Balistids. At any rate I would combine those two with little worry. The eel on the other hand, is the issue and the real concern is still the eel/puffer situation. Up to you but were it me I would consider what a dragon eel usually costs in $ and weigh that risk, as noted. Something quicker moving yet not too vulnerable to being snagged by a piscivorous eel would be a goal to shoot for imo.>

<From your photo here I am guessing it was the puffer. The eel would have gone after the lion to eat, the puffer may have done it due to their sometimes more "hostile" behavior. My bet is that the puffer is the offender. (Bob?)
<<Could have been either one.... likely the Puffer would have kept eating. RMF>>
Personally I would return the puffer and go for a trigger (preferably one of the calmer more easy-going but tough species, see http://www.wetwebmedia.com/marine/fishes/triggers/rhinecanthus/index.htm .
Then monitor as I've mentioned. Another alternative would be to put the dog face (and any other aggressors) into a floated "time-out" container inside the tank where they can see and smell each other but not get into contact.
This will often calm the aggressive fish down after some time, a week or two. I call it the penalty box. You may have a little trouble finding a container sizable enough for that particular fish...Bob recommends a plastic straining colander such as for pasta. I have also experimented with those old-fashioned laundry baskets cut up and rugged with foam or whatnot to keep it afloat. Zip ties are your friend here. This tactic is a good one for introducing possibly hostile rowdy tankmates to an established tank and good to have in your arsenal at any rate. Please let us know how it goes/what you decide.>

Re: Dragon Eel, Dogface puffer, Volitans Lionfish question 10/1/15
I ended up returning the puffer to the LFS he came from for full credit. I decided to keep it a species only tank...too much worrying and stress on myself and my wife about anything happening to the eel!
<safest move and not quite as much mess with just the one big carnivore present>
I did put a dozen damsels in the tank though. They add a lot of nice color and schooling movement throughout the tank. <hmm hopefully minimal intraspecies aggression, but surely a beautiful and maybe more naturalistic and interesting display. Expect some casualties...think of it as "supplemental feeding"!>
On a side note, occasionally the eel will twitch his head side to side. Almost "seizure like". Is this normal?
<I would keep an eye on this, inspect for signs of injury just to be diligent, but not worry unless he does for prolonged periods. It's common behavior, believed to "stir up" the water to aid sniffing out food and generally getting a sense of the surroundings. As you're probably aware they have eyesight like a referee and are almost entirely reliant on their extremely
keen sense of smell. See what effect putting a bit of smelly food like a chunk of silverside immediately has!>
Thanks again, Evan
<Hope this helped,
EC3>

Re: Dragon Eel, Dogface puffer, Volitans Lionfish question 10/2/15
So, just when everything is looking up...a new issue arises! I forgot how much fun new tanks were. I noticed the Dragon Eel was facing straight into one of my powerheads and appeared to be "gasping". Based upon past experience, I checked my ammonia level and found it to be around 0.5-1.0.
Nitrites were 0.0, and nitrates 30-40. I immediately changed out 40 gallons of water and got some SeaChem Prime and Stability to dose. The eel seemed more comfortable very shortly thereafter. Within a few hours, the ammonia level was testing 0.
<Seems a rapid change.>
Nitrites still 0, and nitrates down to 10. Today the eel just "isn't himself". Hiding a lot, won't eat, doesn't come out to greet you like before.
<Not surprising all considered.>
There was once where it looked like some strings of mucus came out of one of his rear nostrils, but hasn't happened since .I'm assuming this is all related to the ammonia...
<Eels have a mucus coat to protect against these situations, maybe just shedding some of that after its bad experience.> Just very upsetting to see him laying on the sand hiding in a cave now. pH is 8.2, dKH 8.2, temp 78 degrees F. Anything else I can do besides just wait and see?
<I would do the usual routine for a stressed animal...keep the lights low bit not completely dark in the tank and room, noise to a minimum, generally avoid anything that would stress it out especially any sudden water parameter changes ...keep it stable and do water changes when needed as a response.
"Only bad things happen fast". Tank may be experiencing a second cycle...more specifics about the system, its history, setup, filtration etc. would be helpful here. The powerhead thing implies a desire for oxygen possibly. Are you running a skimmer?>
Anything else to look for? Also, why the sudden raise and then disappearance of the ammonia? Any info greatly appreciated!!!!
<Keep a close eye on the parameters, look for any uneaten food and remove it if the eel doesn't consume it in short order. Ideally it will eat from a feeding stick on a schedule...same spot every feeding, 3 days apart. If it doesn't eat soon don't panic, they can go on hunger strikes. But do periodically offer food, rotating food items (silversides, squid, octopus etc.). Could try soaking in garlic or better yet Selcon (plenty of info on these on WWM). Eels are often pretty durable. It would not hurt to have a quarantine ready or some other safe place to put him in the odd event things go south in its display tank.>

Re: Dragon Eel, Dogface puffer, Volitans Lionfish question 10/4/15
Everything seems like it's back to normal...hopefully I don't jinx it by saying so! My eel is eating, swimming around, comes out to greet us Everytime we go to the tank. Ammonia levels still holding at 0. Thanks again for all your insights...Evan <Good to hear! Keep water quality up and you seem to be out of the woods.>

Moray eel tank. Dragon... 10/10/14
Hello to whom ever reads this at WWM! hope all is well :)
<Thank you Callum; yes>
I have a few questions that I was hoping you could answer as I have searched for a good while and found little information to help me out with a particular problem :)
Basically I now have a fully cycled 450 jewel vision bow-front aquarium that I was hoping to create a predator reef if possible :)
Dimensions are;60"x18"x24" - 450 litres (120 US gal)
<Ah yes; a handsome set-up; and barely large enough for one Dragon of size>
Now I was hoping to get a Japanese/Hawaiian dragon moray eel in the next few months but am not sure what to keep with it. In particular I was wondering if in this size tank it would be possible to house both a white mouth moray eel and a Japanese dragon together along with a few fish tank mates?
<Mmm; really... best to keep this species by itself... and train it (via feeding... with a stick!) to come out more often. It is a bonafide piscivore. WILL eat most fish tankmates in time>
Also would it be possible with good filtration and skimming to keep a few low care corals in this tank?
<Hard to do with this fish as well... It is given to periodic rambling about its tank, knocking over most everything not securely fastened in place>
Here was the stocking list that I was thinking of :)
Fish;. Hawaiian
dragon moray eel x1. White mouth moray eel x1. Blue throat triggerfish x1. Regal angelfish x1
. Yellowtail/Red Coris wrasse (gaimard) x1
. Blue/green reef Chromis x4
Inverts;
. Turbo snail x10
. Sand sifting star x2
<These might go with the Dragon>
Corals;
. Green fluorescent mushroom coral
. Colony polyps
. Thick finger leather coral
. Brain coral – Favites
. Candy cane coral
<These stonies won't last long here>
Equipment;
TMC V2 pro skim 900 protein skimmer
TMC V2 Aqualumen 900 LED lighting system
FX6 Fluval external filter
<This filtration will need to be added to; as well as providing much more circulation>
Various power heads
Thanks in advance guys! Any info on the white mouth moray would be extremely helpful! :)
<Please read Marco's article re this species here: http://wetwebmedia.com/HIDragonMorayArt.htm
and the linked FAQs files above. Bob Fenner>
Re: Moray eel tank 10/10/14
Thanks bob! really appreciate the quick reply!
Think I will just stick with the dragon in a species tank :)
<This is best. A friend, Randy Donowitz at the Pratt Institute has an almost puppy like one... DO BE CAREFUL however... this fish is prone to leaving the tank if it can, AND IT DOES BITE>
Just out of interest as I cant seem to find much information on it, how does the white mouth normally do with tank mates?
<Okay if they're compatible with it>
Is it near the same as the dragon in terms of compatibility?
<Much more easy-going>
And by extra filtration do you mean more biological filtration etc or more flow?
<Both>
I also thought the FX6 was a good choice as it was rated for up too 400 gallons?
Thanks for your help! :)
<Better, for sure, to have redundancy here. BobF>
Re: Moray eel tank 10/10/14
Wow that's sounds awesome man! cant wait to get mine now :) and will keep the tank locked down tight! wouldn't want to loose such a gorgeous fish over something as easily preventable as that!
Thanks for your help again Bob and am sure will be needing your expert advice in the future :D
Cheers
Callum
<Welcome>

Dragon moray eel growth rate; sys.; comp. 6/24/14
Hello to whom ever reads this at WetWebMedia, hope all is well!
<Ah yes; thank you>
Just a few quick questions if you could spare a minute of your time would appreciate it :)
Basically, I had a disease in my tank known as brooknella that wiped out most of my livestock, so I now have the chance to get my dream moray, the Japanese dragon moray.
So, my question is, how fast would a 12-18 inch dragon moray out grow a 48x18x24 inch tank.
<Mmm; a year or two... VERY important to get/use a SECURE lid... something with all large-enough openings covered/screened AND either tens of pounds of weight AND/OR a latch system to prevent the eel from pushing, getting out>
It would be the only inhabitant for 2 years except a few damsels and a dragon wrasse.
<May well eat these>
So would this stocking list be ok?
. Japanese dragon moray
. Dragon wrasse
. Various damsels x4
The new 60x18x24 inch tank will be ready in 2 years time for the dragon to be moved too, this sound like a good plan?
Thank you!
<I'd aim for as large a system as you can... And do review what we have archived on WWM re this and all Muraenids in captivity.
Bob Fenner>

Hawaiian Dragon Moray Eel Compatibility 1/17/14
Hello Wet Web Media Staff
<Andy; Mmm, Jake>
This is my first time sending an email to you, so I hope that I have sent this correctly.
Currently I have a 300 gallon fish only with live rock system which is soon to be inhabited by my 9inch Porcupine Pufferfish (he was being looked after by our local fish shop whilst we sold our old 100 gallon). My Porcupine Pufferfish will be housed with an almost one foot long convict goby we also had housed originally in our 100 gallon and a 5 inch Majestic Angelfish.
To add to this aquarium we are going to be adding a Hawaiian Dragon Moray Eel.

I have been spending a lot of time researching this Moray Eel and am set on purchasing one, but unfortunately also considered looking into purchasing a Green Moray Eel
<Gymnothorax castaneus? These two may not get along>
to live along side the dragon eel. My main question was; Do you think that a Hawaiian Dragon Moray Eel could live together with a Green Moray Eel peacefully, or are they not compatible, considering the Green Morays size potential and nature?
<IF both were started together at 1.5' long or less, I'd give you 50:50 chance that they'd cohabitate... if larger... less/worse odds>
Thank you,
Jake
<Welcome. Bob Fenner>

Re: Queen Triggerfish behavior and <now Moray> compatibility 5/23/12
Bob,
<Marc>
Thank you kindly for your feedback and advice.
<Welcome>
After a bit of research, I realized that I did not identify my eel correctly. I actually have a (Muraena pavonina) Whitespot Moray. In researching this eel on WetWebMedia, I can concur that this is an aggressive species, as it has bitten my Goldenheart trigger twice in an attempt to pull food from its mouth.
<Mmm>
Anyway, my follow-up question is regarding housing this eel with the Hawaiian Eel, In your opinion, do you still agree that the two should be fine together provided they have adequate hiding spaces.
<Yes; better than even odds they'll get along>
Also, do you know where I can find more information on this species.

Regards,
Marc
<However; there may well be scant practical/husbandry recorded this, most all Muraenid compatibility, behavior. Bob Fenner>

Moray Eel Compatibility 2/24/11
Hi there.
<Hello Alex.>
I (obviously) need your help with a couple questions I'm having about my tank-setup. After having a FOWLR tank for a few years, I have finally decided to try to make the leap into a reef system. My tank is 90 gallons with a Euro-Reef RC250 skimmer, an Iwaki 55rlt pump, and a 25 gallon sump so that I can hopefully keep corals live. My questions are 1) Would 7 Blue Reef Chromis (or would I be okay with a school of 5 or less since 7 fish seems like a lot for a 90)
<In the long run it's highly unlikely 7 will live in peace. I see no problem if you keep a smaller number.>
, 1 Flame Hawkfish, 1 Yellow Tang, and 1 moray eel get along together and be able to live in the tank permanently?
<Depends on the moray. Also, given the input of nutrients to the system with all these fishes I'd rather plan on a Soft coral reef with maybe only the hardiest LPS and SPS.>
And if so, what type of moray would be best? I was thinking of either a Jeweled Moray (Muraena lentiginosa),
<Will likely eat some of the fishes.>
a Goldentail Moray (Gymnothorax miliaris)
<May eat the smaller fish... depends a lot on the specific eel. I got one that likely would and on that probably would not...>
, a Golden Dwarf Moray (Gymnothorax melatremus),
<Chromis and Hawkfish can be eaten if small enough.>
or a Zebra Moray (Gymnomuraena zebra).
<Likely won't ever touch a fish at all.>
I picked the first three because of their overall size and the Zebra because they rarely eat fish. Would any of these work with my tank or is there a better moray for my situation?
<See above. The Golden Dwarf moray (if the Chromis and the Hawkfish have a sufficient size) and the Zebra moray would be okay in my opinion in terms of compatibility. However, the Zebra eel will get pretty big. The other two are hit and miss with the Muraena being the most probable predator.>
Thank you for the help, I just want to make sure this new system goes off without a hitch! Thanks, Alex
<See http://www.wetwebmedia.com/moraycompfaqs .htm for more info on moray eel compatibility. Cheers, Marco.>

Japanese Dragon eel 11/14/10
Hi crew of WetWebMedia,
<Hello Kellvin.>
Recently, I had purchase two 18- 24" Japanese dragon eel. I have a 6" Queen trigger and another 10" dragon eel. Can I transfer both the juv dragon eel and queen trigger together with large dragon eel? Thanks.
<Usually Dragon eels get along well with each other. However, the size difference of your eels is quite significant, so there some danger for the smaller eel to get swallowed.>
With Regards Kellvin
<Cheers, Marco.>
Re: Japanese Dragon eel, incomp. 11/14/10
Hi Marco,
<Hello Kellvin.>
Thank for your reply. I understand that a bigger dragon eel will eat a smaller dragon eel. How about compatibility between dragon eel and queen trigger? Will they attack each other when kept together?
<The circumstances are not very good: Both are among the most aggressive fishes generally kept in tanks and moray eels are also believed to be one reason why the triggers developed their trigger. Sometimes Dragon eels work with triggers, but in other cases they are eaten or bitten badly at night.
It depends a lot on the personality and experiences of the fishes so far.
The queen trigger itself can also become a nuisance to the eels permanently biting their dorsal fin. Given the eels have enough adequate caves to hide this poses less of a problem for your larger ones. However, if I was in your situation I would rather not put the 6" trigger with the larger, 2ft moray eels.>
Thanks.
Kellvin
<Welcome. Marco.>

dragon moray and zebra moray :) 10/30/10
hello crew
<Hi. First of all I have bad news for you: Your shift key seems broken.>
I was wondering if you could answer my questions as I cant see to find the answer first of all I can get a Hawaiian dragon eel for about Â£400 is this a good price
<Yes.>
also I will be purchasing a 5x2x2ft aquarium and will also have a zebra eel in there with it is it possible for them to live together in that tank or will it be like a battleground :)
I already have the zebra eel and he is about 24inch and the dragon moray will be around 16inch apparently

also I have a Sailfin tang that is in need of a upgrade will it be safe with them 2 in that tank
<Can be bitten by the Dragon eel, too. Depends a lot on the individual eel you'll get. Many E. pardalis work rather poor with most tank mates.>
thank you for your time
A hopeful Hawaiian dragon eel keeper :)
<The key seems to work again. Hooray! Cheers, Marco.>
Dragon moray and zebra moray :) 11/01/10
To Marco
<Hello>
Thanks for the swift reply :) sorry about the grammar I'm not too good with things like that :)
Just a couple more questions: Will the Hawaiian Dragon moray eat all tankmates then or does it depend.
<Large tank mates that can stand their ground should be OK. Likely you can also have success with cleaner shrimps and sometimes even small fishes not worth a bite.>
and also how long do they live.
<Medium sized and larger moray eels can live more than 20 years.>
I think I may try it and as soon as I see any aggression I will remove one.
<The poor Zebra moray...>
I do love eels though and will be purchasing one about next summer. I think maybe I'll let you know how its going and send pictures.
<Always good to get updates.>
When I asked the guy he said Â£800 but then said a medium sized one is Â£400. I thought it was a steal.
Anyway thank you for your time and I wish you all the best. A hopeful Hawaiian dragon eel keeper :)
<Cheers, Marco.>
Re: Dragon moray and zebra moray :) 11/01/10
One more thing extremely sorry. What tank mates would you recommend if any I saw some groupers and such with a Hawaiian dragon eel at a Sealife centre which was really cool :)
<Yes, this is a combination that can work given enough space for the grouper. What I personally like the most is seeing them being kept as pairs. This works especially well if two are bought and introduced to the tank at the same time. Almost failsafe if the two have been caught together as a mated pair.>
Best wishes
A hopeful Hawaiian dragon eel keeper :)
<Cheers, Marco.>
Dragon and Zebra Morays; tankmates 11/1/10
Hello again
<Welcome back.>
About the dragon eel again.
<Please use "I" instead of "I" in your emails to us, I (or we) have to correct all of it to make these Email postable and honestly I got better things to do. That's not a difficult grammar rule.>
I also have a saddled puffer and I was just reading on a website that if a eel eats a puffer it will die is this true?
<Not because of the poison, but it is possible that the Eel tries to swallow the Puffer while it is puffing. It can get stuck inside its throat and eventually both fish die. Try Google with "Puffer fish kills big fish" or "Puffer fish kills Dolphin".>
if so I will give the puffer to a friend. I just love the Dragon eel but I am now very concerned about the Zebra Eel. Do you recommend I should give it a go or is there no chance it will work
<If they were my fish I would not try. I cannot exclude it could work, but from my experience I would not be willing to take the risk.>
I would like to see if it works but I'm not sure if I would do at the expense of my Zebra Eel. Would a Jewel Moray eel be a better choice? (the Zebra moray is 28inch now)
<As a tank mate for the Zebra eel: Yes. As a tank mate for a Dragon eel: No... too small... will be dinner at some point.>
Also thought that the Hawaiian dragon moray and the zebra eel would end up at 4ft and the dragon moray 2.5ft as they would be growing at the same rate or is this wrong?
<The Dragon eel will be much more massive with a significantly larger girth, and by far more aggressive. They probably will get along fine for some time, maybe even a few years, but at one point I'd bet the Dragon will clarify who is the top predator in the tank. The Zebra eel may be gone over night. I'd keep them in separate systems.>
I hope that you can give me some advice as I really want the dragon moray :) Good luck in the future and I appreciate your advice and help If I do purchase the eel I will keep you updated Callum :) (new tank - 5ftx2ftx2ft) (old tank - 4ftx20inchx15inch)
<Cheers, Marco.>
eels - 11/03/10
Hello crew
<Hi Cullum>
I am upgrading my tank as you may remember (still haven't decided on that Dragon eel :) ) I will have to take all my fish out of the aquarium and put them in buckets for a while. Do you recommend me putting the filter and a heater in there?
<Yes. Don't let the filter dry out. It needs to keep its bacteria alive.>
Also they will be going into the tank straight away as the filter I

have is rated for 180 gallon or something like that and I

will be moving the same rocks over and the water with some RO water is this ok?
<RO water? You probably mean saltwater mixed from RO water and salt. I'd definitely add some more live rock to the new system and use as much freshly mixed water as possible. If the old water has significant nitrate readings I'd dump most of it. The water itself contains not much beneficial bacteria you want to transfer. It's mostly the rocks, the filter and the sand/gravel that do. I'd transfer all the rocks and a part of the sand/gravel (and dump the rest just like most of the water). Transferring all sand/gravel will likely lead to very cloudy water, because a lot of the fine organic material trapped in between the grains will be released.>
The new tank is 5x2x2ft and the old one is 4ftx2ftx15inch is this enough water?
<For what?>
As the tank is going to be in the same place as the old one this has created a problem.
<Yes. That is why you need all the old rock, possibly some new rock and the filter. A skimmer would be very beneficial in this situation. I guess you do not own a skimmer and do not intend to buy one (If you do: good idea!). Borrowing a spare one from a friend would also be a good idea for the move. Also, after the change you should definitely check for Ammonia at least twice a day for about a week, to see if transferring the beneficial bacteria worked as intended.>
Any advise on a better way
<See above and see http://www.wetwebmedia.com/movelvstkfaqs.htm for other opinions.>
I have been talking to a guy at the shop about the Dragon eel with the Zebra eel and he said give it a go and if I see any aggression remove one but im
<I'm>
still not sure. Anyway this combo could work?
<See last emails. I would not try. How often do you intend to ask this question to get the very same answer from me? You won't get a "Do it" from me. Period.>
Any fish you recommend to go with these eels and in this size tank?
<Since I cannot recommend the combination of the eels, I cannot recommend adding anything else to this combo. The Zebra moray is compatible with a lot of peaceful fishes, the Dragon Eel only with large fishes that can stand their ground such as groupers or a second Dragon eel (see last emails).>
Thank you for your time Callum :) I love your website I have been reading it since I started my Marine aquarium keep up the good work :)
<I'm glad you like it! Cheers, Marco.>
re: eels; I like to move it... switching tanks - 11/03/10
Hello Marco
<Hi Cullum.>
OK but do you recommend me putting the fish in strait away after the tank is set up as this is my only option.
<Better than being in a bucket. I'd transfer them when the cloudiness is gone. As noted earlier a skimmer would be a good item in this situation, because it will add oxygen and remove some of the waste, which will be set free during the move of the rocks and possibly sand/gravel. A move like yours can be done, even if other options like cycling the new tank first for a couple of weeks are better. Just avoid transferring too much dirty sand/gravel, avoid too much dirty water and keep the filter and rock bacteria alive.>
What kind of size bucket do you recommend for a Zebra eel, Sailfin tang, Yellow tang and a Valentini puffer (sorry for spelling)
<The bigger, the better. A good old 6 gallon salt bucket would be my minimum per fish for about 6 hours, but if you have bigger containers available use them. You'll need additional space for the rocks. Keep the buckets well aerated and covered. Don't feed the fish one day before the move.>
I don't think my LFS or my friends can keep my 28inch Zebra moray in one of their tanks :) but if necessary I will ask So how much do you recommend me transferring over ( water )
<If the water is clean (not probable in a FO tank) and shows nitrates
<5ppm you can transfer most of it, If the water is polluted (nitrates>20 ppm) I'd transfer as little as possible. The filter and the rocks contain the bacteria, the filter and surface bacteria need to survive the move, the water is not so important.>
Sorry about asking about the Dragon eel again Thanks Callum
<Cheers, Marco.>
Re: eels 11/4/10
Hello Marco :)
<Hi.>
OMG the questions never end :) sorry once again Should I put a heater in the bucket ?
<Yes, but don't let it get too hot.>
Also you said about keeping the bacteria alive how would I do this?
<Simply by having the filter running. Don't clean it during the move... wait at least a week.>
Could this create a ammonia spike?
<If you kill the filter bacteria by turning the filter off for a few hours or by cleaning it this could cause an ammonia spike.>
Would Nutrafin cycle be a good idea to use because it says it has live bacteria?
<I'd rather rely on the bacteria in your filter and on the rocks (don't let the rocks dry). You can add a live bacteria product if you want, but I do not think you need to.>
I'm just really worried about this move and can't have a safe state of mind without your expertise
<So far you sound quite well prepared.>
Thank you so much
Callum
<Welcome. Marco.>
Re: dragon moray and zebra moray :) Chapter 27 -- 11/7/10
Hello Marco :) Again
<Hi.>
Now I am thinking of getting a Snowflake moray for my aquarium as the Dragon eel is unsuitable. Will this be ok?
<Most likely it should get along fine with all of your fishes. See here http://www.wetwebmedia.com/snowflakemoray.htm and in the linked FAQs.>
And how fast do Zebra eels grow because mine has grown like 18inch in 9 months. Is this normal?
<Very fast for a Zebra eel.>
I checked his length today and he's about 3ft and when I got him he was 18 inch. I saw a Dragon moray in the shop today and it was beautiful and scary at the same time. Still its not really worth the hassle with my tank and all and I couldn't bare it if it died Â£400-Â£1000 down the drain. Thank you for your time :) again Callum
<Welcome. Marco.>
Re: dragon moray and zebra moray :) Chatting more 11/10/10
Hello Marco
<Hi Callum.>
I am planning on a eel but am not sure which one yet so.
I can't upgrade my tank for about a year now so if I only had a puffer and a tang in a 80 gallon tank with the 2 eels would this be ok for a while.
<I'd wait for the second eel until an upgrade is possible.>
Thank you for your time
Callum :)
<No problem. Marco.>
Re: dragon moray and zebra moray :)
Thank you for the advice but would this be possible or would a fish end up dead
<Overpopulated tanks often adjust the number of their inhabitants to the available space over time... If you put too much fish in there, your fish are going to suffer, possibly one or more might get sick and die. Your 80 gallon tank is full in my opinion... a large eel, a medium sized to large tang and a puffer are already pushing it. Therefore, I'd stop adding more until an upgrade is possible for the sake of your current pets.>
Thank you for your time
Callum :)
<Cheers, Marco.>

I like to move it... switching tanks... and some eel tank mates II - 11/03/10
Hello
<Hi.>
I am really sorry for asking so many questions but I really need advice.
<No problem at all.>
By the way I have a protein skimmer rated for 180 gallon I think that has been running on my 4ft aquarium for a year and a bit without fault.
<Very good . This will make the move much easier for the fishes.>
My tank water is really clean with under 5 nitrates and sometimes 0 !!!!! :) which is really cool
<In this case you can transfer all of your clean water into the new tank.>
I think that I'm not going to get the Dragon eel so do you recommend any other eels? I appreciate your advice I love my zebra eel too much :)
<There is quite a number of medium sized semi-aggressive eels, which probably will get along with a Zebra eel and your tangs and puffer: Most Echidna spp. would suit well such as Snowflake eel (E. nebulosa), Chainlink (E. catenata), Barred moray (E. polyzona). Also some members of the Gymnothorax genus such as: Goldentail eel (G. miliaris) and the White eye morays (G. thyrsoideus and G. griseus). Quite a list to choose from. Even a Jewel moray (M. lentiginosa) should work with the Zebra eel, but the other fishes may not be totally safe.>
I'll attach some pics of him now and one cool pic of my puffer :) He's called THE KRAKEN :) Thank you for your time
<Thanks for the pictures. Look great!>
Once again Callum :)
<Cheers, Marco.>

Japanese Dragon Eel and clown trigger. 9/14/10
Hi,
<Hello Kellvin.>
My fish store is bringing in a Japanese Dragon Eel for me. 25-30cm.
Currently I have a show Clown Triggerfish 25cm and a Banded eel and some grouper. Can the dragon eel be kept together?
<Nothing I would recommend.>
Lastly, can dragon eel tolerate Seachem Cupramine?
<Although it might not die instantly, no moray eel should be brought into contact with copper containing products of any sort.>
Thank you with God Bless. Kellvin.
<Cheers, Marco.>
Re: Japanese Dragon Eel and clown trigger.
Japanese Dragon Eel and clown trigger II, 09/15/10
Hi Marco,
<Hello Kelvin.>
Thank you for your quick respond. You mean that the Dragon eel will attack the groupers 15cm to 20cm and the trigger? Thank you very much.
<I rather see problems with the banded eel in the long run, which may/will get eaten as soon as the Dragon eel is able to. Groupers of adequate size are generally better tank mates for eels than triggers. They often
accompany eels in the wild, the two even hunt together. In addition, a Clown trigger of 25 cm can pose a severe threat to a young (25-30 cm) dragon eel. Therefore, I consider the fish community you asked about as not so ideal. This does not mean it won't work in every case, but implies that the chances are not too high. Consequently, I won't recommend it.>
Regards Kellvin
<Cheers, Marco.>
Re: Japanese Dragon Eel and clown trigger.
Hi Marco,
<Hello Kellvin.>
Oops I forgot to ask you, can I add my Clown Trigger of 25cm on my 300g tank consist of angelfish average size of 6-10 inches? Thank you.
<Please read here: http://www.wetwebmedia.com/clntrigart.htm. Younger Clown trigger can often be kept with various larger fishes, but once grown many if not most of them become rather aggressive towards their tank mates.
Bob put it this way: "almost always becomes something of a total terror with growth/age". Consider this when putting the trigger with other fishes.
>
Regards Kellvin
<Cheers, Marco.>
Re: Japanese Dragon Eel (comp.) and clown trigger. -- 09/25/10
Hi Marco,
<Hello Kellvin>
It's me again. Sorry for popping you so much question.
<No problem.>
I have had my Japanese Dragon eel, it is only 20-25cm.
<Tiny!>
I had taken your advice seriously and sold off all my large groupers and clown trigger. Currently in the Japanese eel tank, I have a pair of 6-7 inches Meredith angelfish, a Six barred angel, a Queen angel, a French angel and a Koran angelfish.
<Should work as long as your eel is so small, but an adult Dragon Eel (in about 1-2 years) can pose a problem even to large angels.>
All are about 6-7 inches too. The Japanese eel did not bother them like wise. I have a Banded eel (Echidna polyzona) maybe 3-5cm larger than the eel.
<E. polyzona is relatively harmless ('Snowflake Eel league'), another banded eel, Gymnothorax rueppellii (also called yellow head) would be a different story.>
I am afraid that it will attack my Dragon eel, what do you think?
<If they have enough caves (which is essential when trying to keep several morays together) they should get along, sometimes some small fight occur at the beginning. So, I'd monitor their first meetings and feedings equipped with a net. However, since the Enchelycore pardalis (Dragon Eel) gets much larger and more aggressive than its cousin, it will endanger the banded eel at some point in time. Remember, with about 3 feet total length expected the Dragon Eel will become a large predator.>
And I have a Miniata grouper (Cephalopholis miniata ), a black saddled coral grouper (Plectropomus laevis) and a Threadfin Snapper (Symphorichthys spilurus) all of them were 5-6 inches respectively. Can I mixed them with the baby Dragon eel? Please kindly advice.
<I'd let the Eel grow a few (2-3) more inches to be on the safe side. In a large system (>>500 gallons) they might even be long term compatible with your Eel.>
Thank you
Regards Kellvin
<Cheers, Marco.>
Re: Japanese Dragon Eel and clown trigger. 9/26/10
Hi Marco,
Thank you very much. I had learnt a lot from you.
<You are welcome!>
Regards Kellvin.
<Very colorful specimen. Cheers, Marco.>

Multiple Dragon Moray Tank 03/05/09 Hey crew, <Hi Joe.> I assume this will go to Marco. Hey bud, hope all is well. <Sure, everything's fine. Thanks.> After speaking with you in the past about a Tesselata tank I think I have officially given up on keeping one of these monsters, just can't justify that big of a tank and those huge water changes for just the single eel. So I'm writing today to inquire about my plan B. I'm considering this plan in my existing 240g or downsizing to a 180g (preferred). Can a Dragon Moray (Enchelycore pardalis) and a Brazilian Horned aka Whitespot Moray (Muraena pavonina) be kept together in a 180g? <In terms of water pollution, space required: yes, but with regard to their character this can become problematic. Almost all M. pavonina I had with other eels became aggressive towards their tank mates including morays at some point. The E. pardalis can be quite comparable in the long run... or stay quite peaceful.... hit and miss.> I'm thinking of these 2 eels and one display fish (maybe a Queen or Emperor Angel) <May be attacked, interpreted as a big piece of food, may not be able to hide from the morays. Probably should placed in before the morays to become dominant while the eels are still freshmen.> along with a variety of Damsels/Chromis/Clowns for activity/food/color. Think this is a feasible tank? <Possible... but you should be prepared that one eel may have to be removed at some point. Both should have the same size and be put into the tank together. Lots of caves will also help to reduce territorial behaviour.> I would of course have a HUGE skimmer <Yes.> and wet/dry on it. <Not necessary in my opinion, I'd rather invest into good live rock and power heads.> Thanks for any thoughts or ideas or better main fish for a tank like this. <What you plan can be done... may fail... will definitely depend on the character of the two eels. Other moray combinations have higher chances for success: Zebra eel, Snowflake eel, Banded moray (E. polyzona), Mexican dragon (M. lentiginosa), Chainlink, Goldentail, White eyed morays (G. thyrsoideus and griseus) are easier choices that can be kept together. A divider would be another visually less attractive option or limiting yourself to just one of the desired species (one specimen or a mated pair).> Joe <Cheers, Marco.>

Dragon moray compatibility I have an 18" Hawaiian dragon moray in a 65gallon tank. He is doing great and eating well. He is the only fish in the tank with the exception of some damsels I get about once a week for him to chase around and eat. I want to put a fish in there that actually swims around. The tank looks pretty empty most of the time. I really want to put a clown trigger in the tank with him. I know this fish will eventually out grow my 65 but for now the one I saw at my LFS is the perfect size. Too big to be eaten and too small to have an adverse effect on the tank quality. My biggest concern is if the trigger will pick on the eel? It's the eels tank and I don't want to get something that will hurt him. Thanks. <Mmm, well, this tank is already too small for just the Dragon Moray... and it has now been "trained" to eat what comes into its system... I would NOT place a trigger in with this fish. Bob Fenner>

Could you tell us what are the natural predators of the Hawaiian Moray Eel? 1st Grade Report 11/15/05 Aloha, Could you tell us what are the natural predators of the Hawaiian Moray Eel? Any help would be appreciated. Mahalo, George <Mmm, the resident sharks, including the White Tip Reef, Triaenodon obesus mostly. Bob Fenner>

Japanese Dragon eel and Volitans lionfish -- 11/24/2007 Dear WWM crew, <Bill.> Love your website, it's the best website in this hobby for this hobby. <I'm glad you like the site.> I have a 120 gallon tank with about 100 lbs of live rock and a 30 gallon sump with a ETSS skimmer. The lonely inhabitant is a 30" Japanese Dragon eel and since he is always at the bottom of the tank (only comes up when hungry), I think the tank could use another fish so I was thinking about adding a V. lionfish but I'm afraid that it could sting the eel since the eel might get the wrong idea and try to eat it or would he? <Dragon eels (Enchelycore pardalis) can be a real pain for tank mates due to their long teeth, enormous power and fish eating tendencies. Fish large enough to be safe on the other hand may be a threat to the eel. The lionfish is both, a possible threat to the eel and possible prey. I would not risk losing this rare and expensive moray by adding a lion.> Do eels know to stay away from Lionfish? <In the confined space of an aquarium this may not always be possible. Since the eel was in the tank first, it may well interpret the addition of a lion (and most other fish) as feeding. Can work if your eel is exceptionally peaceful, but the risk is too high in my opinion.> So if too risky to put in a Lionfish, what other fish would you suggest? <Mmm'¦ have many eels together with other eels of the same size without major problems, but eels will stay at the bottom, too, and dragon eels are not among the eels seen sharing their caves in the wild'¦ robust groupers work well with many eels, too, but they need a lot of swimming space and I do not think a 120 gallon system could support a half a metre grouper'¦ Tiny fish like some gobies work quite well with large eels. To be honest I would not try another fish in this tank.> I don't want to deal with Angelfishes or Puffers. <I'm sure the dragon would love dealing with them'¦ pricey food and if the puffer puffs possibly a dead moray.> I really love the Sohal tang and the Harlequin tusk but they would have to be huge since the eel can eat filet of fish (6" long x 2" height) which is pretty big, huh? <Oh yes, and they can take out chunks of larger fishes by forming their body into knot.> Thanks for your time, Bill. <Sorry if it is not what you wanted to hear, but personally I would not try tank mates. Rather enjoy the dragon in his own tank. Much more relaxing. Take care, Marco.>
Re: Japanese Dragon eel and Volitans lionfish -11/27/2007 Dear Marco, <Bill.> Thanks for your quick response. <No problem.> I actually forgot to mention that the eel is going to be transferred to the 120 gallon tank so, if that's the case, would I be able to put the Lionfish in 1st and then the eel?? Do you still think it might not be worth the risk to the eel? <Chances are better when you add the Lionfish first. Anyway, I personally would not risk the life of this pricey and wild caught Moray eel. It is possible they will live together peacefully, but the probability is rather small. Chances are good the Eel will kill or eat the Lionfish at some point. Worst case scenario is the Eel is stung to death while killing the Lionfish.> Thanks, Bill. <Welcome. Marco.>

Dragon moray comp. -- 01/04/2008 Happy new year and thanks for the quick response <Happy new year to you, too'¦ please attach earlier e-mails to new queries, so we know who answered your last question.> , I did forget to mention that I am planning to upgrade to a 1000 litre tank within the next 12 months as I love my Queen Angel and I know it could reach 45cm. The only thing stopping me at the moment is the size of my apartment, which will not be an issue for much longer. I would normally wait, but this is the first Dragon Moray I have come across in the UK after 3 - 4 years of searching. Do you think if I improve the filtration as you suggested, I would get away with keeping the eel in my current set up for the short term until I upgrade. If so what upgrades would you recommend? <I would not risk the lives of your beloved Queen Angel, your puffer or any other fishy inhabitants by putting a Dragon Moray in the same tank. Even other morays of similar size often flee from Enchelycore eels. They can take chunks out of large fishes and fold angels to fit them into their stomach.> All my fish are really healthy and I do regular water checks and changes with R.O.. water. I am even considering trading my black coral sea puffer against the eel if you think it would be a risk to keep them all, but I am very reluctant to part with any of my fish as they all work really well together. <The Dragon would be a typical case for a specimen only tank. Not much I can think of -- aside sessile invertebrates, snails, hermits -- is safe with this type of moray, even other Moray Eels may fail.> Thanks, Kev. <Cheers, Marco.>

Moray Eel order of introduction to the new system -- 01/07/2008 I am planning consolidation of White Mouth (18 in) and Hawaiian Dragon (15 in) into the same system. Both are pretty laid back and fed mostly frozen silverside fish. <Usual warning: Feed a varied diet with clam flesh, mussel flesh, prawns, scallops, squid, fish, and add vitamins from time to time. Your eels will probably thank you by having a long and healthy life.> What order would you suggest for moving them? My plan is to move the white mouth first and introducing dragon a week later. <This coincides with my recommendation. Although I would have kept the Enchelycore preferably in its own system, what you suggest has been done successfully at least for some time. Be prepared to remove the White Mouth or the Dragon in the case of severe aggression, though. In addition provide enough hiding spots for both of them and ensure the tank is 150 gallons or larger. It's good the Dragon is slightly smaller. The first nights and the first few feedings will be the most critical moments.> Thank you in advance for your help. Steven <Good luck. Marco.>

Eel on Diver's Den. Muraena ID, comp. 12/20/08 Hi Crew, and Happy Holidays <Hello Kirk.> Diver's Den has had what they term a "West-African Horned Baby Moray Eel" (7 inches, but they have had it over a month), they are saying Muraena melanotis <Correct, I've seen this species on this page.> which if I am not mistaken is typically the Brazilian Dragon Moray? <No, these are mostly Muraena pavonina, a much smaller species. The name Brazilian dragon moray has been used for M. melanotis in the past, too, a typical problem with common names. I am aware there is an awful lot of misinformation on this group of Muraena species (M. pavonina, M. melanotis, M. retifera and even M. lentiginosa) in hobby and even scientific literature (even Michael, Debelius?). Let me know if there are any questions on their ID or taxonomic status, I've dealt with them in detail in the past and still keep M. pavonina.> Do you think this would make a decent community Moray? <Hehe? no. They get well over 1 m and as thick as a strong arm. Really voracious eaters when settled in and healthy. Think of them as being quite similar to G. favagineus or G. undulatus in terms of character, basically its the same ecological niche this species fills in the tropical, mostly Eastern Atlantic.> I have a 8 foot 240 with the following...Sohal Tang, Asfur and Coral Beauty, Sunset Wrasse & Harlequin Tusk, Sargassum & Redtooth Triggers. The Coral Beauty might be a worry as the Eel grows older (I could put him in my other tank), other than that do you think this Eel would work? I have heard favorable results with the Brazilians in "aggressive community set-ups". <With M. melanotis, the possible loss of the sunset wrasse and the coral beauty is obvious. But even the larger fish may be bitten, ripped apart. I cannot completely exclude it might work, it depends a lot on the temper of this specific eel, but I would not be willing to take the risk.> Would I be better off to look for a Jeweled Moray (Muraena lentiginosa)? <Yes, MUCH better.> I am still a little confused on the difference between melanotis and lentiginosa as I have gotten conflicting info. <Yes, I've been there. M. lentiginosa has smaller hornlike rear nasal tubes, its yellow spots are bordered by a dark rim and it has tiny hair like structures on the top of its head. M. melanotis has white spots on a dark grey background and the longer horns are generally more white (due to white spots) than black. If you still feel unsure you, can always send a picture prior to purchase.> Appreciate any help, Kirk <One of my favourite topics. Cheers, Marco.>

Dragon Eel I was thinking of buying a Dragon Eel for my 180 FOWLR. What do you think about this eel? Does he get fairly big? Long? Will this type of eel go after everything? I really can't find that much information about this specimen. <Enchelycore pardalis? About three feet maximum length... a fish eater. Will eat what it can/does catch> If I did buy this type of eel will I be able to put my hand in the tank to clean it. <Yes, carefully... watching where the Moray is... keeping your hands out of its way> Your opinion will be greatly appreciated. Could you also give some examples of some other fish that I should be able to place in the tank. I'm assuming that all other fish in the tank should be 7inches or bigger correct. When buying fishes of this I'm sure my selection is limited due to the fact that most fish do poorly when you purchase them at that size. <Hmm, depends on the starting size of the Moray... do read over the selection pieces and Moray cover article posted on the www.wetwebmedia.com site. Bob Fenner>
Re: Dragon Eel Does this go the same for the Cortez Dragon Eel? Does this eel look similar in color (markings)? Would this be a better choice? Will this eel come out and show itself during the day? <Yes, yes, about the same in choice, and eventually. Bob Fenner>
Cortez Dragon Eel I was wondering do you think that I could add a 10' Cortez Dragon Eel to my 200 gal FOWLR tank with these following fish already in occupancy? 12' Snowflake Eel, 6' Vlamingi Tang, 5' Pink Tail Trigger, 5' Paddle Fin Wrasse, 5' Twin Spot Coris Wrasse, and 6' Red Coris Wrasse. The Cortez Dragon would be the last addition to the Tank. I know that the current tank size seems like I will be overcrowding the fish but I'm waiting on my 360 gal tank that is on order. I know that Eels hunt at night and was wondering if you think that I would wake up one morning to find my Paddle Fin missing? My Snowflake missing? <Hmm, well, if these fishes were consumed by the Cortez, it would take a couple of years for this to happen. I'm more concerned that the trigger or Coris wrasse might harass this young Muraenid... but give you good odds that this addition will/would work out> I'm looking for an Eel that I could start off small and probably wont be a total terror as it gets larger to my current set-up. I don't want anything like a Zebra moray, but something different that you don't see often in the pet stores. Any suggestions? Already tried looking on the WetWebMedia site and various dealers. Any extra information would be appreciated. <Please look over the section "The Fishwatcher's Guide to... Tropical Eastern Pacific" posted on the WWM site, and consider picking up a copy of this book... need to get them out of the living room. Bob Fenner>

Morays Hi Bob, I am looking at getting a 125 gal tank and was wondering if I could house 2 of the following a Zebra/snowflake/dragon together? <Yes, they can be kept together in such a system> Or what would be allowable tankmates. (clowns with anemones?)>?? <If the anemones were placed high enough in the water column. Likely on live rock> I read the long article on the Zebra moray, is there any literature online about dragon morays? <Don't know... search by the genus name... some on fishbase.org> Kurt <Bob Fenner>

Adding an Eel - Dear Bob, I came upon your site last evening and tried to read as much as I could about this eel. We have a 400 gal tank with: large porcupine puffer, rainbow puffer, 14" French blue angel, 14" gray angel, 5" queen angel, 5" emperor angel.10-12" Naso tang, 4"yellow tang, 6" blue tang, 5" Huma Huma trigger, blue line trigger,7" white face angel, 8" blue ring angel and some small ( 2-3") damsels that were the starters. The guy who takes care of the aquarium and our fish wants to add a dragon eel. I am not sure of it's current size but he says it grows to 18" and is docile. I have read so many conflicting articles, letters and statements that I feel unsure of this addition. Are my current fish going to be in danger?
<Not necessarily, but I think I'd forgo this choice in your situation. While this is a very good looking and docile eel [in eel terms] your tank sounds like it has enough going on without the added bonus of an escape artist in residence. I think you'll also find it won't be exactly cheap. If you can live without this, I would.> Please respond ASAP if you could as he would like our answer by Monday 10/04/04. Thanks for your time! Sincerely, Linda <Cheers, J -- >
- Adding an Eel, Follow-up - Dear WWM FAQ Crew, Thanks so much for your rapid response! <My pleasure.> I completely agree with you. This was not a specimen I was looking into, but offered by our "tank caretaker". <All the more reason to pass on it.> This is a seasonal home so we are not there much through the winter. I just did not want any problems with the other fish being in danger. I also don't know exactly how large it would get and basically want to keep the "peace" in my aquarium! <You can expect the Dragon eel to make it to about two feet.> Thanks for your quick reply, I really appreciate it. Will stay tuned to your wonderful and informative site! Sincerely, Linda <Cheers, J -- >
Re: Tesselata Moray in a 60" x 30" x 30" tank 9/11/05 Thanks for the quick response, In light of your opinion I have decided to reconsider, my LFS also say the Tesselata Moray in their experience is the most aggressive Moray. Would a Dragon Eel be more suitable? and if so could I pair it with a Lion fish?. I have contacted my LFS in England, and they say they could source me a dragon eel in 3-4 weeks for 600 -700 English pounds, would you say this is a fair price? (Tank size 60" x 30" x 30") >>>Hello again, I'd say that is expensive, but about what I'm used to seeing nowadays for that animal. I paid $100 for mine (roughly 200 pounds?) 10 years ago. They are a better choice in the size department for sure given your tank size. How about a zebra moray, a dragon moray, and a Mexican dragon? You could put all three in a tank that size. He should be fine with a lion fish. Cheers Jim<<<

Hawaiian dragon eel; searching for information 03/18/07 Hello all!! <Hi Brent. Marco here.> With all of your answers to my previous questions I go into this hobby with a lot of confidence! So thank you for your knowledgeable replies. <You are welcome.> I am starting up a 240g (96x24x24) aquarium. <Nice size.> My fish list is an emperor angel <This fish will get a little large for your system. Search WWM for Pomacanthus imperator. Provided you have a very good filtration and no other large fishes, it may work.>, clown trigger (I am aware of the trigger's tendencies and am financially prepared to move the trigger to another large system) and a snowflake eel. I was browsing over the Internet for different eel species and came across a Hawaiian dragon eel. I tried to find some info in the FAQs about this eel but couldn't find any. Maybe I was not looking in the right places. <Try WWM and also check Fishbase.org. Using the search feature at WWM I stumbled over several posts regarding this species. Also try searching for Enchelychore pardalis.> Would the Hawaiian dragon eel work in the setup I am getting? <If you can remove the trigger just in case and provide high water quality I'd say: yes.> If it does, I would replace the snowflake with the dragon eel. How big do the Hawaiian dragon eels get? <Size is posted. Will get about 1 m.> Are they aggressive? <They are predators that will eat smaller fishes. But be prepared they also may bite larger fishes. In that case you probably will not have any problems finding a new home for him.> Perhaps you would be so kind as to direct me to the proper link that could help me answer these questions? <As noted above please use the search feature>. I am sure that you have answered all of my questions a hundred times before and I don't want to waste your time. Thank you for all your hard work and dedication. Brent. <You are welcome.>

It's A-Moray! Hey Bob, sorry to trouble you but I do have a question that I would like your knowledge to handle. <<Not Bob, but JasonC - Bob is away diving.>> Hopefully I have a Dragon Moray coming in soon for my new 125 it's being kept at the store till I have the tank ready for it. It's from Okinawa, not Hawaiian, is there any difference in care requirements? <<none that I can think of>> My main question is compatibility. What sort of fish would go in with this guy? Will it be possible to keep other large guys < dragon wrasse, Hawaiian black trigger, Volitans lion, large puffers, etc> or will he end up chomping them, and as such being better with large school of Chromis like fish? <<depends on the size of the eel, but the first list - these are tough customers, potentially your best match for an eel neighbor.>> thanks for any help, I'm still amazed you give out such personal service. <<you are quite welcome. Cheers, J -- >>

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