🐍 African Rope Fish (Erpetoichthys calabaricus)
Oddball Predator • Bottom Dweller • Prehistoric Display Fish
 
📋 The African Rope Fish (Erpetoichthys calabaricus) is a fascinating oddball species belonging to the ancient bichir family. Its elongated eel-like body and prehistoric appearance give it a truly unique look, making it a centerpiece fish for large aquariums.
Rope Fish are peaceful nocturnal predators, spending most of the day resting and becoming active at night to forage. They are excellent escape artists and require a tightly fitted lid, as they can breathe atmospheric air and will venture out of tanks if given the chance.
They are best housed in aquariums with soft sand substrates, driftwood, caves, and dim lighting. While they are predators, they generally coexist with other large peaceful species, but will consume any fish small enough to fit in their mouth.
 
💡 Highlights
✨ Prehistoric appearance – ancient lineage (bichir family)
⚪ Elongated rope-like body – grows to 20"
📏 Peaceful predator – safe with large tankmates
✅ Long lifespan – up to 20 years
🐍 Escape artist – requires a tight-fitting lid