Japanese Dragon Eel

The Japanese Dragon Eel, *Enchelycore pardalis*, is a captivating and highly sought-after moray eel known for its striking appearance. Its body is typically a vibrant orange or reddish-brown adorned with intricate white or yellow spots and markings, giving it a dragon-like pattern. The head is often a contrasting color, and its prominent, sharp teeth are visible even when its mouth is closed.

A minimum tank size of 75 gallons is recommended for a single Japanese Dragon Eel, with larger tanks being preferable to provide ample swimming space and territory. The aquarium must be securely covered as these eels are notorious escape artists. A deep sand bed and plenty of live rock with numerous crevices and caves are essential to provide hiding places and mimic their natural habitat. This species is not considered reef-safe as it will prey on smaller fish and invertebrates.

In the wild, the Japanese Dragon Eel is a nocturnal ambush predator. In the aquarium, it should be fed a varied diet of meaty foods such as frozen or fresh fish pieces (like silversides, krill, or squid), shrimp, and other marine crustaceans. They should be fed two to three times per week. Care should be taken when feeding, as they have a strong bite.

While the maximum size in the wild can exceed 3 feet, in a home aquarium, they typically reach a size of 2 to 2.5 feet. There are no readily apparent visual differences between males and females. Breeding in captivity is extremely rare and has not been successfully documented by hobbyists.

Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Enchelycore pardalis
• Care Level: Advanced
• Temperament: Aggressive
• Diet: Carnivore
• Reef Compatibility: Not Reef Safe
• Region of Origin: Indo-Pacific
• Maximum Adult Size: 35"
• Recommended Tank Size: 180 gallons