Black Ribbon Eel

Ribbon eels are one of the amazing underwater animals only divers get to see. Commonly known as the ribbon eel, or blue ribbon eel, these colorful animals are actually a species of moray eel. Eels can be a challenge to keep due to their ability to escape aquariums. Keep a tight fitting lid or light diffuser panel on the tank.

These Eels will only eat when they are comfortable with their surroundings and have a cave large enough for their long bodies to completely fit into. They can be prone to bothering small sessile inverts and small fish so are considered reef safe with caution. They will feed on a carnivorous diet that can consist of small feeder Fish, such as Mollies, and live inverts, such as Shrimp, Krill, Crabs along with a diet of various meaty preparations enriched with vitamins.

The Black Ribbon Eel, Rhinomuraena quaesita, also goes by the names of the Blue or Yellow Ribbon Eel. These Eels are quite unique, they are black and yellow and resemble a ribbon, hence the name. Unlike the more common Snowflake Eel, the Blue Ribbon Eel is much more slim and has a very unique face.

They can reach a maximum length of 30", which is not very large in Eel terms. Eels are known to try to escape from the aquarium and can be challenged to keep, that is why we recommend a tank with a tightly sealed lid. These Eels will only eat when they are comfortable with their surroundings and have a cave large enough for their long bodies to completely fit into. PVC pipes make great tunnels and you can get very creative with them.

The Eel is not guaranteed to accept PVC as a home, so it is suggested to have plenty of caves and rockwork in the tank for easier acclimation. It is important to watch your hands if you are hand feeding the Eel as they can bite. Feeding tongs can be useful, and are highly suggested when feeding your Eel. Since they are predatory, and their eyesight is not great, they may mistake your hand for food. They are also ambush predators, and should not be housed with any fish small enough to fit into it's mouth. The Blue Ribbon Eel is a very finicky eater, and can be difficult to get to start eating in the beginning.

They also require pristine water, therefor your water quality should be perfect. No ammonia, nitrates, nitrites, and a pH of around 8.3 will ensure a healthy Eel. Keep your temperatures between 72-78° F and dKH between 8 and 12. That is why we suggest only experts care for this marine life.