Reed Fish – A Slender, Eel-Like Creature with Personality
(Erpetoichthys calabaricus)

The Reed Fish (Erpetoichthys calabaricus), also known as the Rope Fish or Snake Fish, is a fascinating and unique addition to any aquarium. Native to the slow-moving rivers and swamps of West and Central Africa, the Reed Fish is known for its long, slender, and eel-like body that allows it to easily navigate through thick aquatic vegetation. With its peaceful nature and distinctive appearance, this species is a popular choice for aquarists looking to add a truly unusual fish to their freshwater tank.

Key Features:

• Eel-Like Body: Long and slender, resembling an eel or snake, making it a captivating sight as it swims through the tank

• Unique Movement: Moves with a graceful, serpentine undulating motion, often seen slinking through plants and décor

• Coloration: A muted olive-green body with darker markings along the back and fins

• Peaceful Temperament: Non-aggressive and enjoys the company of other peaceful species in community tanks

• Size: Grows up to 30–40 cm (12–16 inches), so a larger tank is ideal for this species

Tank Requirements:

• Minimum tank size: 150 liters (40 gallons) for a single fish

• Temperature: 24°C–28°C (75°F–82°F)

• pH: 6.5–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)

• Prefers a well-planted tank with plenty of hiding spots, as it enjoys the cover of plants, driftwood, and rocks

• Substrate should be soft (sand or fine gravel), as Reed Fish are gentle and may be harmed by sharp substrate

• Requires moderate water flow, as it prefers slow-moving waters in the wild

Compatibility:

• Peaceful and Social: Best kept with other non-aggressive fish

• Ideal tankmates include peaceful species like tetras, rasboras, and livebearers

• Avoid keeping with overly aggressive fish that might stress or harass the Reed Fish

• Can be kept with other Reed Fish or other similarly-sized, peaceful species, but be sure there is enough space to reduce territorial disputes

Feeding Tips:

• Carnivorous—feeds primarily on live or frozen foods

• Enjoys a diet of worms, small crustaceans, and occasional fish

• Will also accept high-quality frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia

• Feed 2–3 times a day, offering small portions that can be consumed within a few minutes

• Although it is a predator, it may also accept sinking pellets and flakes designed for carnivorous species

Why Choose the Reed Fish?
The Reed Fish is a unique and fascinating addition to any aquarium. With its snake-like appearance, graceful swimming movements, and peaceful nature, it adds an exotic touch to your tank. Its ability to thrive in community aquariums with other peaceful species makes it a perfect choice for those looking to add an unusual and visually striking fish that will become the centerpiece of their setup.