Caecomastacembelus

Caecomastacembelus albomaculatus is a spiny eel endemic to Lake Tanganyika, where it inhabits rocky areas around the shoreline. Rarely seen in the hobby, it suits a Tanganyikan community of species too large to be considered food, and its hard, alkaline water requirements rule out most other freshwater tanks. The stiffened dorsal rays that give spiny eels their name mean care is needed when handling it.

Caecomastacembelus plagiostomus is a spiny eel endemic to Lake Tanganyika, found in shallow water over rocky areas around the shoreline. Very rarely seen in the hobby, it suits a Tanganyikan community of species too large to be considered food and is somewhat territorial with conspecifics. It grows to 300 mm SL, and its stiffened dorsal rays call for care when handling it.