Ropefish (Erpetoichthys calabaricus)
Fish in the family Polypteridae. Moderate care. Freshwater.
Quick facts
Scientific nameErpetoichthys calabaricus
FamilyPolypteridae
Also known asReedfish, Snakefish, Calabaricus
Care levelModerate
Reef safetyFreshwater
TemperamentPeaceful
DietCarnivore
Adult size16 in
Minimum tank size55 gallons
Water parametersTemp 72-82°F, pH 6.0-7.8, GH 5-18 dGH
Appearance
Long slender eel-like body with no obvious pelvic fins, a series of tiny dorsal spines, and a snake-like head; olive-green to brown with a paler belly.
Difficulty and care for the Ropefish
Moderate
Origin and habitat
West and Central Africa
Keeper notes
A peaceful, sociable relative of the bichirs that does best in small groups; will eat any fish or shrimp small enough to swallow but is gentle with larger tankmates. The single most notorious escape artist in the hobby — squeezes through tiny gaps.
Log Ropefish in your reef tank
Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Ropefish alongside everything else in your reef.
