description Zebra spiny eel Overview
The zebra spiny eel, Macrognathus zebrinus, is a freshwater fish in the family Mastacembelidae. It is native to Myanmar and is named for the contrasting light and dark bands along its elongated body, a pattern that distinguishes it from more uniformly coloured spiny eels. Like other mastacembelids, it has a narrow, eel-like form and a pointed snout, making it relevant to freshwater fish identification and aquarium reference works.
help Zebra spiny eel FAQ
What is the zebra spiny eel's scientific name?
The zebra spiny eel is Macrognathus zebrinus. It belongs to the freshwater spiny eel family Mastacembelidae.
Where is Macrognathus zebrinus native?
The species is native to Myanmar. It lives in freshwater environments rather than the marine habitats occupied by true conger eels.
Why is it called a zebra spiny eel?
Its elongated body has contrasting light and dark bands that resemble zebra stripes. The banding helps distinguish it from spiny eels with reticulated or mostly uniform patterns.
Is the zebra spiny eel related to the tiretrack eel?
Yes, both are freshwater spiny eels in the family Mastacembelidae. They are different species, however: the zebra spiny eel is Macrognathus zebrinus, while the tiretrack eel is Mastacembelus favus.
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