Posted by phoenix on September 30, 2002 at 20:02:59:
In Reply to: New pair of fire eels still not eating worms.... posted by Guy on September 24, 2002 at 21:26:04:
It seems that no amount of experience with these fish can prepare you for every species. The Fire eel is generally more delicate than some of the others and may not appreciate the presence of more aggressive fish for which it will have to compete for food.
I would personally try them with either small earthworms or shrimp (freshwater if possible). Guppies may not be taken anyway except by your other fish. I have known others who have testified that Fire eels will not harm smaller fish (I would not like to try it personally, it could be tempting fate).
It has been noted over many years that these fish can go off feeding for no apparent reason. And sometimes they can resume at a later date. Unfortunately this does not always occur, but it is hard to know what is happening as this "hunger strike" can go on for weeks or months. The only thing we do know is that the quicker you get them feeding again the better.
Do the eels have plenty of hiding places? Either caves or plant thickets (floating) are ideal, this will stop any attempt at burrowing, and help them to feel more secure.
Kepp us informed as to your progress.
:the pair I posted about lower down have yet to beginn eating worms, at least as far as I can tell. Their color is still good,but this not eating really concerns me. They are in a 250 gallon tank with a bunch of other fish, including a voracious peruna cat. I was thinking of maybe getting like 500 guppies to put in there, would this be a likely food supply for them, they are about 14-15" long at the present time. Any help would be greatly appreciated as I wopuld really hate to see these guys go down hill....
: Thanks,
: Guy
