Erpetoichthys calabaricus

Scientific name: Erpetoichthys calabaricus   (Smith, 1865)

Synonym(s): Calamoichthys calabaricus

Common name(s): Ropefish, Reedfish

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Origin: West Africa, Cameroon and Nigeria

Max reported size (TL): 960mm (36")

Description: This fish is very elongate, and lacks the pelvic fins found on the Polypterus species. The dorsal surface is olive green to brownish, with the ventral surface being a lighter yellow-orange colour. There is a dark spot on the base of the pectoral fins. The max size quoted above is unlikely to be seen in aquarium specimens.

Comments: Ropefish are sociable with their own kind and intraspecific aggression is not generally observed. They are also safe to keep with any other fish which are large enough not to fit in their mouths.

Main Reference:

Schafer, F. (2004). Aqualog Polypterus. Verlag ACS GmbH (Aqualog).