Saltwater Fish
Echidna catenata

Species Description…

Scientific Name: Echidna catenata
Common Name: Chain Moray Eel
Species Group: Moray Eels
Habitat: Reef Safe with Caution
Care Level: Intermediate
Temperament: Predatory
Diet Type: Carnivore
Role in Aquarium: Predator
Max Fish Length: 28 (inches)
Min Aquarium Size: 75 (gallons)
Native Range: Western Atlantic, Caribbean
Echidna Catenata - The Chain Moray Eel

Echidna Catenata (The Chain Moray Eel)

Overview

  • Native to the Western Atlantic, primarily inhabiting shallow coastal reefs, rocky outcrops, and seagrass beds.
  • Distinguished by its unique chain-like patterning, featuring bold interlocking black, brown, or yellowish bands.
  • An intriguing and robust species renowned for its secretive behavior and fascinating hunting techniques.
  • Nocturnal and solitary by nature, usually hiding within caves or rocky crevices during the day and becoming active at night.
  • Thrives in large aquariums with plenty of sturdy rock structures, ample hiding places, and stable water parameters.

Feeding

  • Carnivorous, mainly preying on small fish, crustaceans, and marine invertebrates in its natural habitat.
  • Captive diet should consist of frozen seafood, including squid, krill, shrimp, and small fish.
  • Can be easily trained to accept frozen and prepared marine diets, though initial live feeding may be necessary.
  • Typically fed two to three times per week, with meals sized appropriately to prevent obesity and water quality issues.
  • A varied, protein-rich diet maintains health, growth, and vibrant coloration.

Habitat

  • Prefers shallow reef environments, rocky shorelines, and seagrass beds with ample crevices and caves for hiding.
  • Frequently seen with only its head protruding from rocky structures, observing the surroundings quietly.
  • Aquarium setups should provide ample rock formations, stable structures, and hiding spots to replicate natural conditions.
  • Requires stable water quality, moderate water flow, and efficient filtration to thrive.
  • Providing a variety of secure hiding spots reduces stress and supports natural behavior patterns.

Fish Care

  • Optimal water temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C), maintaining proper metabolic rates and overall health.
  • Preferred pH range: 8.1-8.4, with consistent salinity maintained at 1.020-1.025.
  • Regular water changes, vigilant monitoring, and effective filtration are critical to maintaining excellent water quality.
  • Not considered reef-safe, as it may consume smaller fish and ornamental invertebrates.
  • Maintaining proper environmental conditions and providing sufficient feeding minimizes stress and promotes longevity.

Compatibility

  • Best kept with similarly sized or larger marine species due to its predatory nature.
  • Compatible with robust, semi-aggressive fish such as large angelfish, triggers, groupers, and larger wrasses.
  • Avoid housing with smaller or slow-moving fish and delicate invertebrates, as these are likely prey.
  • Thrives best in predator-focused or species-specific aquariums with adequate space and structural complexity.
  • Providing ample hiding areas and stable territory structures helps manage aggression and stress levels.

Aquarium Behavior

  • Nocturnal and secretive, often remaining hidden during daylight and becoming active at dusk and night.
  • Frequently observed partially emerging from hiding spots, cautiously exploring its surroundings when hunting.
  • Known to exhibit fascinating hunting behaviors, capturing prey swiftly and efficiently.
  • Providing a secure and naturalistic environment encourages typical behavioral patterns and reduces stress.
  • Over time, can become accustomed to human presence, showing interest and responsiveness during feeding times.

Recent Comments

No comments to show.