Tiger Reef Eel - Scuticaria tigrina

Tiger Reef Eel (Scuticaria tigrina)

The Tiger Reef Eel is a distinctive and powerful marine eel recognised for its elongated body, bold mottled patterning and secretive reef-dwelling behaviour. Often remaining hidden within caves and crevices during the day, it becomes more active when feeding and during quieter periods. Best suited to experienced marine aquarists, this predatory species requires a large, secure aquarium with substantial rockwork and carefully selected tankmates.

Common Name:
Tiger Reef Eel, Tiger Snake Moray

Scientific Name (Latin):
Scuticaria tigrina

Maximum Size:
Approximately 100–120 cm

Water Type:
Marine

Origin / Natural Habitat:
The Tiger Reef Eel occurs in tropical Indo-Pacific reef environments and is associated with coral reefs, rocky areas, caves and crevices.

It typically spends much of its time concealed within reef structure, emerging to hunt for suitable prey.

Water Parameters:
Temperature: 24–26°C
pH Range: 8.1–8.4
Salinity: SG 1.024–1.026
Nitrate: Low and stable
Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm

Temperament:
Semi-Aggressive / Predatory

The Tiger Reef Eel is generally not aggressive towards fish that are too large to swallow, but it is a capable predator and may consume smaller fish and crustaceans.

Tankmates should be robust, appropriately sized and able to tolerate the presence of a large predatory eel.

Diet:
Carnivore / Predator

The Tiger Reef Eel naturally feeds on fish, crustaceans and other marine prey.

In the aquarium, offer a varied diet including pieces of prawn, shrimp, squid, mussel and marine fish.

Food should be offered using feeding tongs where possible to reduce the risk of accidental bites.

Minimum Tank Size:
Approximately 750 litres

A large aquarium with substantial rockwork, secure caves and enough room for the eel to move comfortably is strongly recommended.

Behaviour & Activity:
The Tiger Reef Eel is typically secretive during the day and may remain hidden within caves or crevices with only the head visible.

It becomes more active during feeding periods and under subdued lighting.

Its long body allows it to move through narrow openings and complex rock structures.

Reef Safe:
With Caution

The Tiger Reef Eel does not normally damage healthy coral tissue.

However, fish, shrimp, crabs and other suitably sized mobile invertebrates may be hunted and eaten.

It is therefore best considered reef safe with caution.

Special Requirements or Care Notes:
A tightly sealed aquarium is absolutely essential, as eels are highly capable escape artists and may pass through surprisingly small openings.

All gaps around pipework, cables and lids should be securely covered.

Provide substantial, stable rockwork with several large caves and shaded retreat areas.

Tankmates should be selected according to mouth size rather than body length alone.

Avoid keeping with ornamental crustaceans or small fish where their safety is a priority.

Strong filtration, excellent oxygenation and regular maintenance are important due to the biological load created by a large carnivorous fish.

Use feeding tongs and avoid hand-feeding.

Suitable for:
Experienced

Availability:
Availability can vary depending on season, collection area and supplier.

All images are a visual representation of the fish you will receive, made to be as accurate as possible. Please note that Mother Nature is a wonderful thing, and variation in patterns and colours will occur — that is part of the unique beauty of these animals.