is a small tank suitable for my chain eel?

[KaleidoRex]

I've got a chainlink moray eel in my 10 gallon tank, and I know it's way too small for the long run. The water is R/O and he's got a sweet little home set up in the rocks, plus he's eating like a champ. My only concern is the tank size, but like I said, he's still a baby - only 7 inches long.

I had planned on upgrading to a 55 gallon, but then I got cold feet and decided I wanted something even bigger, so now I'm looking at a 75 gallon. The problem is, I'm not ready to shell out the cash just yet. I know chainlink morays can get up to 2 feet in length in a tank, so I'm wondering how long I've got before my little guy outgrows his current home.

[jamtart]

Honestly, I think he's already too big for that tank. You need to get the 75g and set it up as soon as possible. Get it cycled and transfer him to the bigger tank ASAP, it's the best thing for the eel's health and well-being.

[KaleidoRex]

I'm dead serious, what's the absolute max time I can get away with for the 10 gallon. He seems perfectly fine, spends most of his time in his cave. Are you 100% sure it would be super detrimental to his health if he stayed in the 10 gallon any longer? I don't have the funds for a 75 and if I buy the 55, he'll have to live in that permanently, which I've read is too small for this specific eel.

I get he may not be thrilled, but with my limited budget for the actual tank, I was hoping this hardy eel could tough it out a bit longer since he seems fine. I've seen bigger eels in small tanks for biology and they seemed okay.

[jamtart]

Honestly, I think you're pushing it already. If you can't get that 75g tank within a couple months, I'd consider rehoming the eel. You might be able to find a used tank on Craigslist - in the US, people often give away good deals on there. I was in a similar situation myself, thinking I couldn't afford a new tank with the initial setup costing around $300. But then I stumbled upon a full tank, stand, and all the essentials on Craigslist for just $40.

[KaleidoRex]

Honestly, if you can't get the 75g within a couple of months, I'd rehome the eel. Look into used tanks on Craigslist, you can find some great deals. I was in a similar situation, thought I'd have to wait, but I got a full tank setup for $40 on Craigslist, so it's worth a shot.

[Flynest]

If you're planning to move your eel to a new tank soon, you can actually skip the full cycle process. What's key is transferring the filter media when you switch tanks, and then just hold off on adding any other fish for a bit.

[KaleidoRex]

I agree that two months might be doable, given the circumstances. That being said, it's still crucial to get the new tank up and running as soon as possible. When you do make the transfer, switching the filter media will definitely help minimize the stress on your eel. Just keep in mind to avoid adding new fish for a while after the move.

[Flynest]

I just looked up the eel and yeah, it's a saltwater species. Considering it's only 7 inches long, I think it'll be alright for 1-2 months, but not much longer than that. Just make sure the lid on your 10-gallon is secure, no holes big enough for the eel to squeeze through.

[KaleidoRex]

Yeah, he's a saltwater eel, my first one actually. I've been keeping the salinity at 1.023, which the supplier recommended. I really appreciate the help from both of you, even though I know this isn't the most ideal situation. I'm glad I can gather enough funds within the next couple of months to get the bigger tank. I'm sure he'll appreciate the extra 20 gallons, and I know I will too. I'll keep an eye out for any red flags or signs of stress, as always.

[Flynest]

I take back what I said about the filter media, no experience with saltwater here, sorry about that.