Garden Eel

Garden Eel

Scientific Name Heteroconger hassi
Identification Pale body with black spots; lives in colonies with only the head-end emerging from a burrow in the sand.
Maximum Length 16 inches
Origin Indo-Pacific
Minimum Tank Size 75 gallons (with 6"+ sand bed)
Reef Compatibility Reef safe

Behavior

Very peaceful; extremely shy. Must be kept in groups (at least 3–5); single specimens rarely thrive. Minimal human traffic near tank helps them settle.

Diet & Feeding

Carnivore/planktivore. Needs frequent feeding of small meaty particles delivered by current — mysis, Cyclop-eeze, and baby brine shrimp.

Cautions

Delicate; can quickly waste away. Requires specialized care and a group setting.