Size
15 cm
Physical Characteristics
Erpetoichthys calabaricus has a snake-like appearance, with a yellow ventral surface and greenish black dorsal surface. This species contains unique scales known as ganoid scales and tentacles with nostrils or nares that extend from the head.
Temperament
The ropefish is a calm species of fish despite being a carnivore. They won’t hesitate to consume little fish or insects that can fit in their mouths, though.
Habitat
West and Central Africa’s freshwater and brackish water ecosystems are home to it.
Keeping as Pet
- Tank Size
55 gallons are the bare minimum tank size required. Whenever you decide to add more rope fish, you should up the capacity by 10 gallons per fish. To allow them to develop their maximum potential and live a captive existence that meets their needs, you actually need to utilize a horizontal or rectangular-shaped tank.
The best tanks are those that are longer, and if you can utilize shallower water levels, it can lessen the likelihood that they will jump out to go on terrestrial trips.
- Water Parameters
The following water conditions should be recognized, monitored, and maintained:
Water hardness 29 dGH pH 6.0-7.5
79 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit (26 to 30 degrees Celsius)
Low-light or dim lighting is preferred for circadian cycles.
- Feeding
If offered, rope fish will happily eat almost anything. Even though they have pretty terrifying peg teeth that are intended to crush and grind victims, they frequently swallow their meal whole.
Feeding them flake and pellet diets is an option, but meatier foods are preferred and well-tolerated. Even though they are not the most convenient, live foods are best since your rope fish will appreciate the effort.
Rope fish prefer the following foods: Earthworms, Frogs, Chopped meat of any kind, Brine or Mysis Shrimp, Live insects including mosquitoes or crickets and Miniature Shrimp species.
- Tank mates
If you have a sizable community and want to give that layer more depth, adding them to the lower population in your tank is an excellent idea because of their laid-back demeanor.
If you want to fill your blackwater tank with additional people, these are your greatest options:
- Rainbow Fish
- Tinfoil Barbs
- Large Gouramis
- Bala Sharks
- Angelfish
- Larger catfish
- Clown Loaches
- Hatchetfish
Steer clear of small invertebrates such as guppies, platies, mollies, rasboras, tetras, and anything similar. Moreover, you should stay away from aggressive species like cichlids, which could harass and stress out your rope fish.
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