Care
The Zebra Moray Eel is a nocturnal species that is known from wave-swept seaward reefs. Here, this elongate bottom-dweller may be found in the narrow nooks and crannies between rocks and corals, at a maximum depth of 50m (164ft). It typically feeds overnight, with xanthid crabs making up the bulk of the diet, but will also take other crustaceans, molluscs, and urchins. Close-set, pebble-like teeth enable these eels to crush hard-shelled prey with ease. The aquarium should be spacious and mature, with a soft sandy substrate. Create plenty of narrow, shady refuges in the rockwork that the eel can explore and hide amongst, ensuring that all decor is stable and cannot be undermined. Suitable crevices should have a fairly narrow entrance hole but be roomy enough behind for the eel to conceal its entire body within. Unfortunately, this fish is not recommended for reef aquaria, as although small fish are rarely taken, ornamental invertebrates will be eaten without exception, and corals which are not securely attached to the rockwork may be accidentally toppled. The Zebra Eel grows large and is a voracious eater, so ensure that the filtration/protein skimming is very efficient, with areas of brisk water movement and some calmer resting spots out of the current. This fish is relatively mild-mannered and reclusive, but it can become more pugnacious at feeding times. Conspecifics are not well tolerated, so it is best to maintain just one Zebra Eel per tank. Companions can include many medium-large sized fish that thrive in a fish-only set up. Ensure that the aquarium has tight fitting coverslides and no gaps where equipment feeds into the tank, as these fish are proficient escape artists. Whilst most moray eels are poorly suited to life in the home aquarium, the Zebra Eel is an excellent candidate for those willing to set-up a tank around its specific needs. May also be seen on sale as the Zebra Moray Eel.
Feeding
Offer a variety of meaty foods including Mysis shrimp, krill, prawns, cockle, mussel, clam meat, crab meat, crayfish tails etc.
Breeding
This species has been known to spawn in captivity, but has not been raised successfully to adulthood due to the long, planktonic stage the larvae undergo. It is also difficult to obtain a compatible pair of adults that will cohabit in the same aquarium without issue.
