Species profile
Ropefish
Erpetoichthys calabaricus
Semi aggressive
Moderate care
540 L minimum aquarium
30–40 cm adult size
Bottom all
Can be kept singly
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Long, eel-like polypterid and notorious escape artist. Adult welfare depends on a wide floor area and completely sealed cover more than on tank height.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
23–28 °C
pH
6–8
GH
5–19 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Low–moderate
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Can be kept singly
Tank zone
Bottom all
Territory level
Low
Predation risk
Small fish
Bioload factor
3.5
Generally tolerant of suitably large peaceful tankmates but predatory toward small fish and invertebrates. Every cable gap, filter opening and lid edge must be secured.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
No / caution
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
No
Jump risk
Yes
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Carnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
540 L
Minimum footprint
150 × 60 cm
Accepted scientific name
Erpetoichthys calabaricus
Alternative names
Reed Fish, Rope Fish, Snakefish
Native range
Coastal West and Central Africa, from Benin eastward to Cameroon.
Natural habitat
Slow rivers, standing/reedy waters and estuarine-associated freshwater/brackish habitats. Use dense cover, soft substrate and access to atmospheric air.
Diet & feeding
Nocturnal predator of worms, crustaceans, insects and other animal foods. Feed quality carnivore pellets plus varied frozen/live aquatic foods.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Males have a larger, thicker anal fin than females when mature; body shape alone is unreliable.
Breeding
Eggs are deposited among vegetation; larvae hatch after several days and remain attached to plants before becoming free-swimming.