{"product_id":"electric-eel-7-10cm-for-sale-uk","title":"Electric eel (Electrophorus electricus)","description":"\u003ch2\u003eOverview\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003eElectric Eel\u003c\/strong\u003e (\u003cem\u003eElectrophorus electricus\u003c\/em\u003e) is a legendary South American electric fish celebrated for its powerful electrical discharge and massive size. Native to freshwater habitats of the Guiana Shield in northern South America, this aggressive, solitary species is suitable only for expert keepers with massive, specialized systems. Available for sale UK-wide, the Electric Eel is an exceptional choice for public aquariums or highly experienced aquarists seeking an awe-inspiring, intelligent fish with extreme care requirements.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"info-box\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQuick Facts\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAdult Size:\u003c\/strong\u003e Up to 180 cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMinimum Tank:\u003c\/strong\u003e 10,000 litres\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWater Temperature:\u003c\/strong\u003e 24-30°C\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003epH Range:\u003c\/strong\u003e 5.5-7.0\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTemperament:\u003c\/strong\u003e Aggressive\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eAppearance and Coloration\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eElectrophorus electricus displays an elongated, eel-like body with dark grey to brown coloration on the dorsal surface and lighter grey to yellow on the ventral surface. The species lacks dorsal and pelvic fins, relying on an undulating anal fin for propulsion. The large, expressive eyes and prominent mouth create a distinctive, powerful profile. Despite the common name, this species is not a true eel but a type of knifefish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eNatural Habitat\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Electric Eel inhabits slow-moving freshwater habitats of the Guiana Shield in northern South America, including rivers, floodplains, and swamps. These environments feature soft, acidic water stained by tannins, abundant submerged wood, and seasonal fluctuations in water level. The fish are solitary predators, hunting for fish and invertebrates using electrical discharges to stun prey.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eAquarium Setup\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA minimum 10,000-litre aquarium is essential for the Electric Eel—this species is not suitable for home aquariums and requires public-aquarium-scale systems. Provide a secure, escape-proof lid, smooth décor to prevent injury, and ample swimming space. Strong filtration and excellent oxygenation are critical. The aquarium must be electrically isolated and designed to prevent electrical hazards to both the fish and aquarist.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWater Parameters\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMaintain soft, acidic water with pH 5.5-7.0 and temperatures between 24-30°C. General hardness (GH) should be low, ideally 2-8 dGH. The Electric Eel is adaptable but performs best in stable, well-filtered water with excellent quality. Perform large weekly water changes to control nitrate and maintain stable parameters. Low stress is essential, as stressed eels may discharge more frequently.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFeeding and Diet\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eElectrophorus electricus is a carnivore that requires a varied diet of fish, earthworms, insect larvae, and crustaceans. Use high-quality, vitamin-rich foods and avoid relying on feeder fish, which may carry disease. Feed 2-3 times per week in large portions appropriate for the fish's size.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"tip-box\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eExpert Tip\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis species is extremely powerful and dangerous. It can deliver shocks of up to 600 volts, capable of stunning or injuring humans. Not suitable for home aquariums.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eBehaviour and Personality\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Electric Eel is a highly intelligent, solitary, and aggressive fish. This species is a powerful predator that uses electrical discharges to navigate, communicate, and hunt. Eels are nocturnal and spend much of their time resting or patrolling their territory. They are capable of recognizing keepers and may become habituated to feeding routines.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTank Mates\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBest kept alone. In very large public-aquarium-style systems, large, non-aggressive species may be attempted, but success is rare. Avoid small fish, shrimp, crabs, other electric eels, and any species that can be eaten or stressed by a large predatory fish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eBreeding\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBreeding is poorly documented in captivity and is rarely achieved. In nature, reproduction is seasonal and tied to flooded habitats. Successful captive breeding would require very large, specialized systems, seasonal water level changes, and excellent water quality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Buy from Tropical Fish Co\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTropical Fish Co is your trusted source for extraordinary and specialist-level species, including the iconic Electric Eel. Every fish is quarantined, health-checked, and acclimatized to UK water conditions before dispatch. We provide expert guidance on large-scale, specialized tank setup, electrical safety, water chemistry, and feeding regimens to help you succeed with this legendary species. With fast, reliable delivery across the UK and a commitment to quality fishkeeping, Tropical Fish Co is your premier destination for the most exceptional freshwater fish.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tropical Fish Co","offers":[{"title":"7 - 10 cm","offer_id":57427534905679,"sku":"KB05","price":70.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"11 - 15 cm","offer_id":57456943169871,"sku":"KE67","price":83.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"80 cm","offer_id":57456943202639,"sku":"KB14","price":394.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1007\/1408\/6735\/files\/electric-eel-electrophorus-electricus-7-10cm-hero-driftwood-kb05.webp?v=1776552282","url":"https:\/\/tropical-fish-co.myshopify.com\/products\/electric-eel-7-10cm-for-sale-uk","provider":"Tropical Fish Co","version":"1.0","type":"link"}