We're talking about two VERY different versions of 5 feet. G. zebra will regularly hit 4 feet or more, but remains very snake life, with a low girth to length ratio. The two tesselata species on the other hand, G. favagineus and isingteena, have a maximum reported length of 8 feet and can be as thick as your calf at 5 feet and thigh at 8 feet. Both will make quick snacks of whatever they can, or sometimes can't fit in their mouths.Their behavior is why they do not need a huge aquarium. Consider the fact that they spend the vast majority of their time in their dens waiting for a meal to pass by; they enjoy tight spaces as it makes them feel secure. They're like the fish equivalent of a large snake and can be cared for as such.
Besides, why would LiveAquaria.com and numerous other reputable sites say that a 180 gallon aquarium is the minimum?
Couldn't agree more.I know eels behaviors and that they spend vast majority of their time in their caves/dens but, IMO, the tank still isn't large enough for one for a lifetime...eels do go out and swim once in awhile and you also got to keep in mind how much of the tanks capacity is consumed with the rocks.
I know LiveAquaria is a reputable website but they also say a Chiloscyllium punctatum "black banded cat shark" can live in a 180g even though they get over 4' in length and like lots of room to swim. This is only one example of crazy and false info provided by them.
Four feet is a great max to set. The zebra should still be an option for you. Regardless, definitely get a moray!I will take that into consideration. Is 5' the wild ocean max length or is it commonly achieved in an aquarium. If it is I will take those or which ones do grow 4+ feet in aquariums off my list. Thanks for all the info guys.
Nice!
I can hear your wife now...."don't fall on your ass!"
haha
Awesome news about the zebra. I am trying to wait for my 90 gallon to sell before ordering the skimmer... keyword being trying. If not sold by wednesday then I will order the skimmer anyway.My only take away on that skimmer is it's massive and difficult to fit in most sumps.
I'd say you can put the Zebra in whenever... it's a wonderful aquarium species.