HomeCompare fishAfrican bonytongue vs Lesser spiny eel African bonytongue vs Lesser spiny eel: can they live together? Verdict: Not recommendedThe Lesser spiny eel is aggressive towards other fish.The African bonytongue is aggressive towards other fish.The African bonytongue grows about twice as long as the Lesser spiny eel; watch for bullying or predation.Both are comfortable at 24–28°C (75–82°F).A pH of 6.7–7.5 suits both.Side by sideAfrican bonytongueLesser spiny eelAdult size100 cm (39 in)38 cm (15 in)Minimum tank455 L (120 US gal)115 L (30 US gal)Temperature24–30°C (75–86°F)20–28°C (68–82°F)pH6.7–7.56.5–7.5Hardness4–12 dGH (71–214 ppm)6–35 dGH (107–625 ppm)TemperamentAggressiveAggressiveCommunity tank–GoodCare levelDifficultEasyDietCarnivoreOmnivoreSpecies profilesAfrican bonytongueHeterotis niloticusLesser spiny eelMacrognathus aculeatus