Reedfish
From Microcosm Aquarium Explorer
Enthusiasts love this species, but it will eat small fishes and is an accomplished escape artist. JJPhoto.dk
[edit] Overview
This West African snake-like fish grows quite large—almost 3 ft. (90 cm) and, because they are able to leave the water for short periods, are known escape artists. Most end up dead on the floor unless the aquarium top is carefully covered.
Not a good community aquarium fish by any measure, but a candidate for a species aquarium set up to keep it contained. Does best in groups of 3 to 5 or more. While it will hunt down and eat all small fishes in an aquarium, it is not aggressive toward humans. Can be kept with bichirs (Polypterus spp.), to which it is related.
Family: Polypteridae
Other common name(s):
- Ropefish
- Snakefish
Native range:
Habitat: Slow-moving shallow waters. Be sure to provide sunken driftwood, rock, and/or large plantings to give this species places to hide.
Maximum length: 90 cm (35 in)
Minimum aquarium size: 265 L (70 gal)
Water: Freshwater 22 °C (295 K, 72 °F) - 28 °C (301 K, 82 °F)
General swimming level: Bottom.
[edit] Feeding
Carnivore. All manner of meaty foods will be taken.
[edit] Aquarium Compatibility
Will rid a tank of all smaller fishes and snails. Needs tankmates considerably larger than its mouth.
[edit] Special Care
Cover the tank well, including all edges and openings for filtration equipment, airlines, and heater cords. If a Reedfish is found outside the tank, it may revive if placed back in the aquarium. They are able to survive several hours out of water.
[edit] Breeding/Propagation
Not reported.
| Common name | Reedfish +, Ropefish +, and Snakefish + |
| Family | Polypteridae + |
| Genus | Erpetoichthys + |
| Image credit | JJ + |
| Maximum length | 35 in + |
| Minimum aquarium size | 70 gal + |
| Native range | Nigeria +, and Congo + |
| Reference | 101 Best Tropical Fishes + |
| Specific name | calabaricus + |
| Swimming level | Bottom. + |
| Text credit | KW + |
| Water max temp | 301 K (28 °C, 82 °F) + |
| Water min temp | 295 K (22 °C, 72 °F) + |
| Water type | Freshwater + |