Can You Keep Freshwater Eels in a Koi Pond? Compatibility and Feeding Concerns

Eel Biology

Most freshwater eels (Anguilla species) are catadromous—they breed in the ocean and live in fresh water. They're predatory and will eat any fish they can swallow.

Compatibility

In a pond with koi, orfe, catfish, goldfish, and shubunkins, an eel would likely prey on the smaller fish. It may not accept prepared foods.

Recommendation

Unless you have a species-specific setup and accept the risk, avoid adding eels to a mixed ornamental pond.