Can Neolamprologus Similis and Reedfish (Ropefish) Live Together?

Neolamprologus Similis is a moderately assertive species (6/10), while Reedfish (Ropefish) is generally mild-mannered (3/10). This modest difference means Neolamprologus Similis may occasionally assert dominance over Reedfish (Ropefish).

Neolamprologus Similis and Reedfish (Ropefish) both frequent the Bottom (Substrate) region of the setup. This overlap can increase competition for space, so providing ample room and cover is important to keep both species comfortable.

There is a critical concern: the Nano / Bite-sized (Predation Risk) behaviour of one fish directly conflicts with the Piscivore (Eats small/nano fish) trait of the other — piscivorous fish will prey on nano-sized tank mates..

Additional behavioural considerations to keep in mind: Shrimp eaters may also prey on very small nano fish.

Worth noting: Reedfish (Ropefish) is nocturnal and will be most active after lights-out, naturally reducing daytime encounters. Also, Reedfish (Ropefish) is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.

The safe temperature window for both species falls between 24°C and 27°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 25.5°C) for optimal comfort.

The pH requirements of Neolamprologus Similis (7.8–9) and Reedfish (Ropefish) (6–7.5) do not overlap, making it impossible to satisfy both species simultaneously.

For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 10–20 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.

To house Neolamprologus Similis and Reedfish (Ropefish) together, plan for an aquarium of at least 180 litres with a minimum length of 120 cm. This recommendation combines the stricter species minimums with a community-load allowance so the pairing has realistic long-term space and filtration headroom.

Providing a mix of open swimming space and sheltered areas with rocks, driftwood, or plants will keep both species comfortable and allow natural behaviour.

Specific environmental needs for this combination include: Sand (Sifters), Shells (Breeding/Hiding), Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels), Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding), Plants - Densely covered. Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.

Both species do well with moderate (standard) water movement, so a standard filtration setup rated for the tank volume should suffice.

Neolamprologus Similis and Reedfish (Ropefish) are the kind of pair that can look acceptable in a shop but become a maintenance problem at home. The main risk is not a single number in the chart; it is the way incompatible behavior, water needs, or pressure on space compounds over time once both fish are established in the same tank.

Feeding time deserves special attention with this pairing. Reedfish (Ropefish) is a known shrimp eater and may prey on small invertebrates or nano fish like Neolamprologus Similis.