Can Gertrude's Spotted Blue-eye and Tire Track Eel Live Together?

Gertrude's Spotted Blue-eye is a peaceful species (2/10), while Tire Track Eel is moderately assertive (6/10). This notable difference means Tire Track Eel may occasionally assert dominance over Gertrude's Spotted Blue-eye.

In terms of spatial distribution, Gertrude's Spotted Blue-eye prefers the Top (Surface) and Middle (Open Water) zones, whereas Tire Track Eel occupies the Bottom (Substrate) zone. Because they use different levels of the water column, territorial disputes are less likely and the tank will appear more balanced.

There is a critical concern: the Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk) behaviour of one fish directly conflicts with the Piscivore (Eats small/nano fish) trait of the other — piscivorous fish will prey on nano-sized tank mates..

Additional behavioural considerations to keep in mind: Shrimp eaters may also prey on very small nano fish.

Worth noting: Tire Track Eel is nocturnal and will be most active after lights-out, naturally reducing daytime encounters. Also, Gertrude's Spotted Blue-eye is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 22°C and 28°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 25.0°C) for optimal comfort.

Both fish can tolerate a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 5–15 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range. An aquarium test kit is recommended for monitoring.

To house Gertrude's Spotted Blue-eye and Tire Track Eel together, plan for an aquarium of at least 816 litres with a minimum length of 180 cm. This accounts for the larger species' space requirements with an additional 20 % buffer to reduce territorial tension.

Providing a mix of open swimming space and sheltered areas with rocks, driftwood, or plants will keep both species comfortable and allow natural behaviour.

Specific environmental needs for this combination include: Plants - Densely covered, Plants - Floating, Leaf Litter/Blackwater, Sand (Sifters), Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels), Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding). Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

Both species do well with moderate (standard) water movement, so a standard filtration setup rated for the tank volume should suffice.

Feeding time deserves special attention with this pairing. Tire Track Eel is a known shrimp eater and may prey on small invertebrates or nano fish like Gertrude's Spotted Blue-eye.