How to Take Care of a Rope Fish

Rope fish, which are also known as reed fish, are friendly, peaceful fish with long, slender, snake-like bodies. They are found in freshwater aquariums around the world and are a very hardy addition to any community tank. Taking care of a rope fish is fairly easy because of their docile nature but care must be taken to keep them properly fed and keep them contained within the tank, as they are infamous escape artists.

Things You'll Need

  • 55-gallon aquarium (minimum) with tight-fitting lid
  • Aquarium filter
  • Aquarium heater
  • Dechlorinator
  • Gravel
  • Rocks and decor
  • Nylon net
  • Tubifex worms, earthworms, other meaty foods
  • Duct tape
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Instructions

  1. Setting up the Tank

    • 1

      Layer the bottom of the tank with about 2 inches of aquarium gravel and fill it with freshwater. Dechlorinate the water with a liquid dechlorinator. The proper dosage will be on the packaging.

    • 2

      Install the filter and aquarium heater. The filter typically hangs on the back of the tank, but you will need to consult the manual specific to your model. Heaters usually attach to the interior wall of the aquarium using suction cups. Set the heater to between 75 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

    • 3

      Place any rocks or decor in the aquarium. Rope fish are bottom dwellers and prefer caves and logs.

    • 4

      Allow the aquarium to filter for 48 hours before introducing any fish.

    General Care

    • 5

      Place the lid on the tank so that it is as tight-fitting as possible. Use duct tape to cover up any gaps. Rope fish are notorious for jumping out of aquariums, so all possible exits must be sealed up.

    • 6

      Feed the rope fish twice a day with as much food as it can eat it two minutes. They prefer meaty foods like beef heart, earthworms or tubifex worms.

    • 7

      Scoop any uneaten food out of the tank with a nylon net. Uneaten food will eventually decompose into potentially dangerous chemicals like ammonia.

    • 8

      Change 1/4 of the water in the aquarium every two weeks. Change the water once per week if it is a community tank.