Dwarf White Spot Spiny Eel (Sinobdella longitubulus)

Common Name

Dwarf White Spot Spiny Eel

Origin and Habitat

Sinobdella longitubulus was described in 2024. This little eel hails from southern China, from the Zhu Jiang River Basin in Guangxi Province. 

Its natural environment is a series of shallow, rocky streams with moderate current and crystal-clear water flowing over mixed stone and gravel. These streams host a community of loaches, gobies, and small minnows, all built for fast, oxygen-rich water. The Dwarf White Spot fits right in, weaving between rocks and darting out to hunt tiny insects and worms along the streambed.

Temperature and Water Conditions

Keep this eel in conditions that mimic its subtropical roots. A temperature range between 72 and 79 degrees Fahrenheit (22 to 26 degrees Celsius) is ideal. The natural pH is likely 6.5 to 7.5, with soft to moderately hard water.

Clean, stable, and well-oxygenated water is crucial. Think of a mountain stream in miniature, with steady flow and consistent parameters.

Appearance and Size

This is a slender, graceful species with a soft brown body covered in small pale spots that sparkle under aquarium lighting. The white spotting pattern is where it gets its common name.

Adults reach around 6 to 7.5inches (15-19 centimeters), making it one of the smallest members of the spiny eel family. Its two long tubular nostrils and expressive face make it look like it is always sniffing out secrets. Males and females appear similar, and both have a curious, snake-like grace that adds a touch of mystery to the tank.

Diet in the Wild

In its natural environment, this eel feeds on tiny worms, insect larvae, and small crustaceans it finds hidden among gravel and roots. It is a patient ambush hunter that senses movement through smell and vibration.

Feeding in Captivity

Feed this species like a true spiny eel. Offer live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, blackworms, tubifex, chopped earthworms, and brine shrimp. Once settled, many will accept sinking carnivore pellets or frozen mysis.

Feed in the evening or in dim light. They are most confident after dark and prefer to search the bottom rather than compete at the surface.

Behavior and Tank Setup

This eel is peaceful, curious, and shy until it feels secure. It enjoys burrowing and exploring, so use soft sand or smooth gravel. Add caves, rock piles, driftwood, and shaded retreats.

A three to four foot aquarium (around 90 to 120 centimeters) is ideal. Provide steady water movement, high oxygen levels, and a tight lid because spiny eels are famous escape artists.

Good tankmates include small barbs, danios, gobies, or loaches that prefer similar water movement. Avoid aggressive fish or anything small enough to fit into the eel’s mouth.

Breeding

There are no confirmed reports of breeding for the Dwarf White Spot Spiny Eel. It may require seasonal triggers such as temperature change, heavy feeding with live foods, and exceptional water quality. Until that is confirmed, this remains a rare and unbred species in the hobby.

Quick Facts

Scientific Name: Sinobdella longitubulus
Origin: Southern China, likely Zhu Jiang Basin
Size: 6 inches (15 cm)
Temperature: 72–79 °F (22–26 °C)
pH: 6.5–7.5
Temperament: Peaceful, shy, bottom dwelling
Diet: Carnivorous, eats worms, crustaceans, and insect larvae
Breeding: Unknown in captivity
Tank Setup: Clean, well-oxygenated stream environment with smooth sand and secure cover

Tropical Fish Co. Notes

This is one of those species that makes experienced fishkeepers stop and stare. The Dwarf White Spot Spiny Eel is a perfect mix of mystery, rarity, and personality. It stays small, looks incredible under soft lighting, and moves with that elegant, hypnotic eel glide that always captures attention.

Set it up in a long, peaceful aquarium with steady flow, clean water, and plenty of places to explore. Once it settles, it becomes surprisingly interactive and will often peek out from hiding when it learns your feeding routine.

At Tropical Fish Co., we consider this one a collector’s species. It represents the thrill of discovery, and it is already winning hearts in the aquarium world.