Splendid Garden Eel

The Splendid Garden Eel (Gorgasia preclara) is a peaceful species that is reef-safe with caution, admired for its striking orange-and-white banded coloration, graceful upright posture in the sand, and unique burrowing behavior. Males typically grow slightly larger and may show more vivid coloration, while females and juveniles are generally smaller and less intensely colored. They reach about 16–24 inches in length and should be housed in aquariums of at least 50–75 gallons, with larger tanks preferred for groups.

Provide a deep sandbed (at least 6 inches) for burrowing, minimal live rock to avoid obstructing their space, and open sandy areas where they can anchor themselves. A secure lid is essential since these eels can attempt to escape when stressed. Water parameters should remain stable, with salinity around 1.020–1.025, temperature between 72–79°F, and pH 8.1–8.4.

Their diet should consist of meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, copepods, and finely chopped seafood offered in the water column, as they prefer to feed on drifting items rather than hunting actively. With proper care, this eel makes a fascinating and standout addition to a peaceful reef or fish-only aquarium, best kept in groups where their natural colony behavior can be observed.

International Aquatics Quarantine & Guarantee: All fish are checked by marine vets, given a formalin bath, and held for 14 days in copper-treated systems. We feed Selcon-soaked food with Kanaplex and Metroplex during quarantine. Unless marked, all livestock comes with our 15-Day Guarantee. You will receive a video of your fish eating before shipment. On request, we also send photos/videos after arrival at IA. Some species are import-to-order (3-10 business days). Many common species are already cleared or near the end of QT.

Several species will be import-to-order and may take anywhere from 3-10 business days to secure. Once your fish is secured, you will be notified, and the quarantine process will then begin.