Japanese Dragon Eel - Enchelycore pardalis

The Japanese Dragon Eel (Enchelycore pardalis) is one of the most dramatic and sought-after morays in the hobby, displaying an intense mix of orange, yellow, white, and black markings with a fearsome, toothy grin. This powerful predator is best reserved for advanced marine aquarists who can provide a secure, spacious system with plenty of rockwork and caves for hiding and ambushing prey.

Highly territorial and aggressive toward smaller fish and invertebrates, the Japanese Dragon Eel is best kept either alone or with large, robust tankmates that are not easily intimidated and are far too big to be swallowed. All openings must be tightly covered, as eels are escape artists capable of squeezing through surprisingly small gaps.

Offer a varied, meaty diet consisting of fresh or frozen marine foods such as shrimp, squid, krill, clams, and small fish. Feeding with tongs is recommended to prevent accidental bites and to help target-feed your eel directly. Maintain excellent water quality, strong biological filtration, and stable salinity to support long-term health and vitality.

• Care Level: Advanced
• Temperament: Aggressive, Predatory
• Minimum Tank Size: 125+ gallons with extensive rockwork
• Reef Compatibility: Not reef-safe with fish or crustaceans; may eat most tankmates
• Diet: Carnivore – meaty marine foods, tong-fed
• Special Requirements: Escape-proof lids and secure rock structures

For aquarists prepared to meet its demanding needs, the Japanese Dragon Eel becomes a truly unforgettable centerpiece, combining bold coloration, impressive size, and captivating behavior in a properly designed predator aquarium.