Reedfish - Erpetoichthys calabaricus : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
The Reedfish (Erpetoichthys calabaricus), a snake-like species, has garnered a consistent following among enthusiasts with a penchant for unique aquatic creatures. These inquisitive beings exude a peaceful temperament and possess an intriguing sense of "personality."
While predominantly nocturnal, Reedfish may occasionally venture out during daylight hours. Despite their size, they may fall victim to bullying by other fish, particularly when it comes to food or territory disputes. It is worth noting that some Reedfish display a tendency to linger near the water surface, ensuring a measure of safety from potential threats and even exhibiting moments where a significant portion of their bodies may protrude above the waterline. Given their gregarious nature, it is advisable to maintain Reed Fish in adequately sized groups.
Successful cohabitation of Reedfish with other medium-sized, peaceful species is achievable. However, caution must be exercised to avoid introducing tankmates small enough to be preyed upon overnight. Suitable companions may include medium-sized, relatively docile Cichlid species such as Angelfish, Severums, or Festivus, as well as large Gouramis and medium to large-sized Catfish. It is advisable to steer clear of overly boisterous species that may outcompete the Reedfish during feeding sessions.
Keeping Reedfish can present certain challenges. They have a propensity for jumping out of tanks and entering filtration systems, often resulting in fatalities. Furthermore, they can be sensitive to pH fluctuations and nitrogen chemistry, necessitating regular small partial water changes.
Ideally, an aquarium housing this species should provide ample space, with dimensions of at least 5ft x 2ft x 2ft to accommodate adult specimens, and should be securely covered. Due to these factors, Reedfish are better suited to experienced aquarists rather than beginners.
Reedfish possess a unique adaptation that allows them to respire atmospheric air using modified swim bladders. This enables them to survive for a certain period outside of water. Therefore, leaving a small gap between the water's surface and the cover slides is crucial to allow the fish access to the air above. Denying them regular access to the surface may lead to suffocation. The water should be efficiently filtered while maintaining a gentle flow to ensure the fish are not subjected to excessive currents.
The substrate should consist of soft sand, as Reedfish frequently forage along the tank bottom and may even submerge themselves completely when startled. Including smooth, water-worn rocks and delicate driftwood can create shaded caves, while areas of dense planting with tall, hardy species like Vallisneria and Anubias are recommended. Lighting should be subdued or diffused through abundant vegetation to avoid excessive brightness.
The Reedfish possesses an elongated, eel-like body devoid of a ventral fin. Its long dorsal fin comprises distinct spines, each supporting articulated rays and a membranous structure. Notably, Reedfish possess a pair of lungs, enabling them to respire atmospheric air. This adaptation allows the species to endure low levels of dissolved oxygen in the water and survive for a moderate duration outside of the aquatic environment.
In addition, these fish exhibit diamond-shaped scales characterized by a dark colouration on the upper and lateral portions, juxtaposed with lighter orangish or yellowish underparts. Males typically display an olive-green hue, while females tend to exhibit a yellowish-brown shade.
Reedfish Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Distinguishing between male and female Reedfish can pose a certain level of difficulty. Despite their striking resemblance, subtle distinctions can be observed, primarily in the context of weight and anal fin morphology. Female Reedfish, on average, exhibit greater weight compared to males of similar length. Furthermore, an accurate means of differentiation lies in the examination of the anal fin structure. Notably, the base of the anal fin is marginally lengthier in males in comparison to females, providing a reliable criterion for sexual identification.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Erpetoichthys calabaricus |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1865 |
| Other Names | Ropefish, Snakefish |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Polypteriformes |
| Family | Polypteridae |
| Genus | Erpetoichthys |
| Origins | Benin , Cameroon , Nigeria |
| Max Size | 25 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Bottom |
| Difficulty | Intermediate - Advanced |
| Shoaling | No |
| Best kept as | NA |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg Depositor |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 20 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater/Brackish |
|---|---|
| pH | 7.0 - 8.0 |
| GH | 10 - 30 |
| ℉ | 79 - 86 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 26 - 30 |
Natural Habitat
The Reedfish, an indigenous species, is found in Benin, Cameroon, and Nigeria, encompassing a substantial geographic range extending from the Ouémé River to the Sanaga River in West and Central Africa. This remarkable aquatic species predominantly occupies tranquil or stagnant fresh or brackish waters, characterized by a pleasant, relatively warm tropical climate. Notably, they exhibit a distinct preference for habitats adorned with reeds or other luxuriant plant formations, enhancing their ecological significance and environmental appeal.
Breeding
The process of breeding Reedfish presents a considerable challenge, yet it offers an exceptional opportunity for dedicated and passionate hobbyists to embark upon a rewarding breeding project.
Until relatively recently, our understanding of the reproductive behaviour of Reedfish was limited. However, a notable breakthrough occurred during the 1990s when a select group of these fish successfully spawned in captivity. Notably, these particular individuals were estimated to be approximately 15 years old, suggesting that this species may require a significant amount of time to reach sexual maturity.
During the courtship phase, the male and female Reedfish engage in an elegant display by swimming parallel to each other, often manoeuvring through clusters of aquatic plants. The male employs jerking sideways movements of his head towards the female's body, serving as a distinct courtship behaviour. If the female is receptive and prepared to spawn, she will cease swimming, allowing the male to wrap his anal fin around her genital opening.
In a tranquil state, a small number of eggs are gently released into a specialized cup-shaped structure formed by the male's anal fin. Subsequently, fertilization takes place before the eggs are dispersed through vigorous tail movements.
The eggs possess adhesive properties, enabling them to firmly attach to nearby vegetation. This reproductive process is repeated multiple times until the female has depleted her supply of eggs. Importantly, it is noteworthy that once the eggs are laid, the adult Reedfish exhibit no parental care. Approximately 70 hours later, the larvae hatch, remaining attached to the vegetation as they absorb nutrients from their yolk sacs.
Around 2.5 to 3 weeks following hatching, the young Reedfish commence their feeding phase. At this developmental stage, they possess external gills with intricate branching patterns, resembling larvae of salamanders. However, as the fish continues to grow, these external gills gradually disappear.
In their natural habitat, Reedfish are known to exhibit year-round spawning activity, with a discernible peak of heightened reproductive activity occurring once annually.
Diet & Feeding
Being carnivorous by nature, Reedfish exhibit a dietary preference for crustaceans, insects, and worms in their natural habitat. While they consume fish, it is typically considered a last resort option.
These fascinating creatures are primarily nocturnal, engaging in rest during the day and actively feeding during the night. Notably, they can quickly adapt to and synchronize with feeding routines established by their caretakers, sometimes even initiating daytime feeding. Despite their limited affinity for vegetation, this species has a diverse range of suitable feeding options.
Commercially available flake and pellet foods are generally convenient choices; however, it is important to acknowledge that dried food offerings may not always be readily accepted by Reedfish. Optimal dietary selections often revolve around meaty frozen foods. Smaller Reedfish readily consume frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, and mosquito larvae, while larger specimens can progressively transition to Mysis Shrimp, prawns, and even earthworms. Introducing live foods can be both stimulating for the Reedfish and instrumental in promoting natural behaviours.
Reedfish heavily rely on their keen sense of smell to locate their food sources. Consequently, when housed alongside other meat-eating fish, there is a possibility that they may face competition for sustenance, leading to potential instances of inadequate nourishment.
To ensure optimal feeding, it is advisable to provide their meals just before their light source is extinguished. While Reedfish can withstand extended periods without food in the wild, it is crucial to maintain a consistent feeding regimen in captivity. This can be achieved by either offering small portions daily or larger servings every other day, ensuring their nutritional needs are met while minimizing the risk of overfeeding.
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