Rope Fish (Reedfish) (Erpetoichthys calabaricus) is a intermediate-level freshwater fish that needs at least 75 gallons and 75-82°F. A long, eel-like fish from Africa that breathes air at the surface and hunts mostly at night. It is calm with fish too big to swallow but will eat anything that fits in its mouth, and it is a skilled escape artist.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Erpetoichthys calabaricus |
|---|---|
| Family | Polypteridae |
| Origin | West and Central Africa |
| Adult size | 15-20 in |
| Minimum tank | 75 gallons |
| Temperature | 75-82°F |
| pH | 6.0-7.5 |
| Temperament | Peaceful with large fish, eats small ones |
| Social behavior | Solitary or small group |
| Swim level | Bottom to mid |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Diet | Carnivore: sinking pellets, frozen and live worms, shrimp pieces |
| Typical lifespan | 10-15 years |
Quick tips
- Cover every gap in the lid; it will find them.
- Do not keep with small fish like neons or with shrimp.
- Feed sinking foods, since it finds food by smell and touch.
San Diego water
Captive-bred stock usually adapts to San Diego tap water with slow acclimation. For best color and health, many keepers blend tap with RO/DI water. Learn the numbers in our San Diego tap water guide.
Before you buy
Make sure your tank is cycled (how to cycle a tank), check your numbers with the water testing guide, and use the compatibility guide to check tankmates. These are general ranges; individual fish and local water vary.
Find it at Pet Zone
Pet Zone Tropical Fish is a San Diego aquarium store with two locations. Stock changes daily, so call ahead if you are after a specific species or plant. Shop online at petzonesd.com.
4160 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 987-0309
Open daily, 10am-6pm
Aquascaping, planted tanks
4266 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 283-1812
Closed Monday; Tue-Fri 10:30am-6pm, Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm
Monster fish, koi