What width tank for an electric eel?

[BobCat]

I am considering getting an electric eel but I was wondering what you guys thought would be a suitable tank size? Mainly I mean width, for eels width isn't too important because their so flexible, the electric eel though is obviously a knifefish. So how flexible are they? Do they need a tank as wide as their length or does narrower give them sufficient room to turn?

Whats the opinions?

 

[Zoodiver]

I'd suggest a foot print of something around 5x10 feet. For depth, anything more than 2 feet would be fine.

 

[ZOO YORK 207]

This should probably be moved to the Knifefish section cause that is the family they are in.

But I would go with what Zoodiver said.

 

[Oddball]

I would prostitute myself to be able to get the biggest tank possible so the EE can live it's entire life in one tank. Better to pre-set the environment then to deal with having to relocate a 4, 5, 6, or 7ft eel that will NOT go quietly when the time comes to move it.

 

[Zoodiver]

Here's a shot of the electric eel tank at Newport Aq (Kentucky). It's a touch on the small side for an adult, but it give you an idea. They have three, only the two smaller animals are on display. The adult is in a back holding area with a larger tank.

 

[Bogwoodbruce]

I'd do what they said and get the biggest tank to start with. I wouldn't want to move a 6 or 7 foot fish that could knock out a horse with it's electricity.

 

[BobCat]

Thanks for the help guys. I have two spare 8ft x 2ft tanks and I was really wondering if one of these would be suitable and for how long but point taken about trying to move one to a larger tank if needed later, that would certainly be interesting!