🐍 Reed Fish (Rope Fish) (Erpetoichthys calabaricus)

Add something truly unique to your aquarium with the fascinating Reed Fish, also commonly known as the Rope Fish. With its long, eel-like body and peaceful nature, this prehistoric-looking species brings movement, curiosity and personality to larger tropical setups.

A true conversation starter, Reed Fish are ideal for UK aquarists looking for something unusual and compatible with peaceful community aquariums.

🌿 Why Choose Reed Fish?

• 🐍 Unique eel-like “rope” body shape
• 🌿 Ancient, prehistoric appearance
• 🧘 Peaceful and non-aggressive temperament
• 🌙 More active during dusk and night
• 🐠 Fascinating swimming and exploring behaviour
• ⭐ Excellent oddball species for larger tanks

Reed Fish are slow, graceful explorers that spend time along the bottom and mid-water, often weaving through plants and décor.

📏 Care Requirements

• 🧬 Scientific Name: Erpetoichthys calabaricus
• 📛 Common Names: Reed Fish / Rope Fish / Snake Fish
• 🏠 Tank Size: 200L+ recommended (large footprint preferred)
• 🌡️ Temperature: 24–28°C
• ⚗️ pH Range: 6.0–7.5
• 🧘 Temperament: Peaceful (predatory toward very small fish)
• 🍽️ Diet: Carnivorous – frozen foods, sinking pellets, worms, crustaceans
• 👥 Group Size: Can be kept singly or in groups
• 📍 Swimming Level: Bottom to mid-water

Reed Fish require a secure lid as they are excellent escape artists and will explore any gaps in the aquarium.

🐠 Compatibility

Best suited to peaceful medium or large community tanks with similarly sized fish. Avoid very small fish, which may be seen as food.

Great tankmates include:

• Larger tetras
• Gouramis
• Catfish (non-aggressive species)
• Other peaceful oddballs

Important Notes

Reed Fish are skilled escape artists, so a tightly sealed aquarium lid is essential. They also appreciate hiding spaces such as caves, wood, and dense planting.

The Reed Fish (Rope Fish) is a perfect choice for UK aquarists looking for an unusual, prehistoric-looking species that adds real character to a large community aquarium.