PisciDex Species Profile
Rope Fish
Snake-like primitive fish that needs a tight lid, meaty foods, and tankmates too large to swallow.
Erpetoichthys calabaricus
Polypteridae | Africa | West and Central African coastal drainages
Core Requirements
Tank Size
75 gallons minimum
Adult Size
15 inches
Group Size
Solo
Bioload
5/10
Water Parameters
Temperature
72-82 F
pH
6-7.5
Plant Safe
Yes
Invert Safe
No
Data Confidence
medium
Temperature note: Recommended and tolerated temperature ranges currently match the primary care profile.
Care Warnings
- Predatory escape-prone fish that may eat small tankmates. Keep a tight lid.
Behavior & Husbandry
Temperament
Semi-Aggressive
Aggression
4/10
Diet
Carnivore
Difficulty
Advanced
Lifespan
15 years
Breeding
Advanced
Schooling
No
Compatibility Tags
Large TankSemi AggressiveBottom DwellerPlant SafeSoftwater
Similar Species
Species Compatibility
Database-driven compatibility notes for planning community aquariums.