Blue Ribbon Eel EXPERT ONLY (Rhinomuraena quaesita)

Quick Stats
Care Level: Expert Only | Temperament: Semi-aggressive | Color Form: Black, Tan, White, Yellow | Diet: Carnivore | Reef Compatible: With Caution | Water Conditions: sg 1.020-1.025, 72-78? F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4 | Max. Size: 4′ 2″ | Family: Muraenidae | Minimum Tank Size: 100 gallons | Compatibility: View Chart

Overview
The Ribbon Eel, or Ribbon Moray Eel, has unique characteristics include a long “ribbon-like” body, delicate jaws, and tubular anterior nostrils capped with an elaborate fan-like expansion.

The colors of this eel can vary dramatically as it grows in length. The juvenile is jet-black with a yellow dorsal fin. When it reaches 25-32 inches in length, it transforms itself into a male and will become a bright blue with a yellow snout and lower jaw. As it grows and reaches a length of 33 or more inches, it will transform into a female and become entirely yellow or yellow-blue.

The Ribbon Eel should be kept in a 100 gallon or larger aquarium with a deep (4-5 inch) sandy bottom under which it can live and hide. Its refuge may be a cave, man-made corals, or a PVC pipe that is buried in the sand with only one opening. The aquarium requires a tight-fitting lid to prevent escape.

The Ribbon Eel feeds on live feeder fish, crab, or shrimp and does not want to compete for food.

Approximate Purchase Size: 26″ to 30″

Please Note: We guarantee that ALL aquatic life we offer will arrive alive and in good condition. However, because of the increased level of care required for this particular species, it has been designated as “Expert Only,” (R) and we cannot guarantee it after arrival. As an Expert Only species, we recommend that only the expert marine aquarist, zoo, or research institution should purchase this species.