An ancient, eel-like species from West Africa closely related to Bichirs. They are famous for their snake-like appearance and gentle nature. Unlike Bichirs, Ropefish are social and prefer to be kept in groups. They are nocturnal hunters using smell to find food. WARNING: They are legendary escape artists; a tight-fitting lid without even the smallest gap is 100% mandatory.
At a Glance
Tank Requirements
Water Parameters
Temperament & Compatibility
Available Varieties
Each variety inherits the species defaults above. Only differences are highlighted.
Adult (Standard)
The adult form. Requires a large footprint and secure lid. Peaceful with fish too large to swallow, but will eat neon tetras and shrimp.
Differs in 1 trait from base species
Juvenile (Grow-out)
Young specimen often found in stores (15-20cm). Can be kept in smaller tanks temporarily, but requires a plan for upgrade. extremely sensitive to water quality and escapes.
Differs in 5 traits from base species
Also known as: Baby Ropefish
Reedfish (Ropefish) Care Summary
The Reedfish (Ropefish), scientifically known as Erpetoichthys calabaricus, belongs to the Oddballs family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 37 cm and have a eel body shape with a slow growth rate. Classified as mostly peaceful, this species primarily occupies the bottom and mid-level zones of the aquarium and produces a medium level of biological waste.
To thrive, the Reedfish (Ropefish) requires a freshwater only aquarium with a minimum volume of 180 litres and a tank length of at least 120 cm. Water temperature should be maintained between 22°C and 28°C, with a pH range of 6–7.5 and a general hardness of 5–20 dGH. A low water flow is preferred. To replicate their natural habitat, the tank should include sand (sifters), smooth gravel (sensitive barbels), driftwood (digestion/hiding), and plants - densely covered.
This species should be kept in groups of at least 3 to reduce stress and encourage natural behaviour. Keepers should be aware that this species will prey on fish small enough to fit in its mouth, is not safe with ornamental shrimp, is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential, and is primarily active at night or during twilight hours. This species is available in 2 varieties: Adult (Standard) and Juvenile (Grow-out). Each may differ slightly in size, temperament, or care needs, so it is worth checking the specific requirements of the variety you plan to keep.
Similar Species
Senegal Bichir
Polypterus senegalus
A fascinating, prehistoric-looking predatory fish often called the 'Dinosaur Eel'. They possess a modified swim bladder acting as a lung and must have access to the surface to breathe. Though peaceful with large, deep-bodied tank mates, they are strictly carnivorous and will consume any fish or invertebrate that fits in their mouths. Excellent escape artists; a heavy, tight-fitting lid is mandatory.
Amazon Puffer
Colomesus asellus
One of the few truly freshwater, community-safe pufferfish. Native to the Amazon basin, these energetic swimmers are known for their bumblebee-like stripes and erratic swimming patterns. Unlike most puffers, they are social and prefer to be kept in groups. CRITICAL WARNING: This species has the fastest-growing teeth of any puffer. They REQUIRE a daily diet of hard-shelled foods (snails, clams, crustaceans) or they will require manual dentistry (trimming) to prevent starvation.
Molly (Sailfin/Black/Dalmatian)
Poecilia sphenops
Mollies are active, hardy livebearers native to the Americas. They are famous for their ability to adapt to fresh, brackish, and even full marine water. They are voracious eaters (including algae) and produce a high bioload for their size. Note: 'Molly' covers several species; the Short-finned (*P. sphenops*) and the much larger Sailfin (*P. latipinna* and *P. velifera*).
Bumblebee Goby (Brackish)
Brachygobius xanthozonus
A miniature, bottom-dwelling goby famous for its striking black and yellow stripes. While they are often sold as freshwater fish and can survive in it temporarily, they are highly susceptible to fungal infections in fresh water and truly require a brackish setup (SG 1.002-1.005) to thrive long-term. They are notoriously picky eaters, often ignoring flakes in favor of live or frozen foods (like bloodworms or brine shrimp).
Japanese Ricefish (Medaka)
Oryzias latipes
A hardy, small, and colorful fish native to East Asia. Extremely popular in the outdoor pond hobby and nano aquariums. They are 'amphidromous' (tolerant of salinity changes) and can survive a wide range of temperatures, making them excellent tub/pond fish. They are surface dwellers that look best when viewed from above (top-down).
Turquoise Rainbowfish
Melanotaenia lacustris
A stunning, deep-bodied rainbowfish endemic to Lake Kutubu in Papua New Guinea. Famous for their ability to shift colors from deep teal to bright iridescent blue depending on mood and water quality. They are active schooling fish that thrive in hard, alkaline water.