25 Rope Fish Tank Mates
The rope fish, also known as reedfish is an interesting choice for community aquariums. As an owner of these unique aquatic creatures, finding the perfect tank mates is essential. In this article, we’ll explore 25 ideal companions for your rope fish, ensuring a harmonious underwater community.
Angelfish
Angelfish are a popular choice for aquarium enthusiasts due to their graceful appearance and diverse color patterns. With their long, flowing fins, they make a striking addition to any rope fish tank.
Here are some key details about angelfish to help you determine if they would make a good tank mate for your rope fish:
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 20 gal (75 L) minimum
- Temperature Range: 75-84°F (24-29°C)
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Semi-aggressive
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous — feed them high-quality flakes or pellets, as well as live or frozen foods like brine shrimp and bloodworms
- Adult Size: 6 in (15 cm)
Despite their beauty, angelfish can be territorial at times, but their compatibility with rope fish is solid, as both species inhabit different regions of the tank. Just keep an eye on their interactions to ensure a harmonious living environment.
Bristlenose Pleco
Bristlenose Plecos make excellent tank mates for Rope Fish. Their peaceful, adaptable nature allows them to coexist easily with various fish species. With their unique appearance, Bristlenose Plecos add an interesting dynamic to your aquarium. This hardy fish is a favorite among aquarists, especially beginners, due to its low-maintenance and easy-going nature.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: 20-30 gallons (76-114 liters)
- Temperature Range: 72-79°F (22-26°C)
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, eats algae, vegetables, and sinking pellets
- Adult Size: 4-5 inches (10-13 cm)
Bristlenose Plecos are skilled algae eaters and help keep your tank clean. These highly adaptable fish do well in well-maintained tanks that mimic their natural habitat. Remember to provide hiding spots for them, like caves or rock formations, so they can rest and feel secure.
Hatchetfish
Hatchetfish are an interesting species to consider as rope fish tank mates. With a unique body shape and a peaceful nature, these fish can coexist nicely with the rope fish in a well-structured environment.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 20 gal (75 liters) minimum
- Temperature Range: 74-79°F (23-26°C)
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful & Schooling
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous – flake food, small pellets, and live or frozen food
- Adult Size: 1-3 inches (2.5-7.5 cm)
Due to their shoaling nature, having a group of hatchetfish in your tank will create a fascinating display as they swim together near the water’s surface. As long as you maintain the appropriate water parameters and offer them a diverse diet, your hatchetfish should thrive alongside your rope fish.
Cory Catfish
Cory Catfish are a popular choice for rope fish tank mates due to their peaceful nature and compatibility with various fish species. These bottom-dwellers make a perfect addition to your tank as they help maintain a clean environment by scavenging for food leftovers and detritus. Cory Catfish are active fish and thrive in a well-planted aquarium with plenty of hiding spots.
- Compatibility: 5/5
- Tank Size: 20 gallons (76 liters)
- Temperature Range: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful and social
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous; feed on sinking pellets, live, and frozen foods
- Adult Size: 1-3 inches (2.5-7.5 cm) depending on species
Siamese Algae Eater
The Siamese Algae Eater (Crossocheilus oblongus) is an excellent tank mate for Rope Fish due to its peaceful demeanor and ability to coexist with various other species. These fish are known for their exceptional algae-eating habits, helping maintain a clean aquarium environment.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: 30 gallons (113 liters) minimum
- Temperature Range: 72-79°F (22-26°C)
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore; needs a balanced diet of both vegetable matter and small invertebrates.
- Adult Size: Up to 6 inches (15 cm)
Siamese Algae Eaters enjoy exploring the tank, keeping algae under control, and providing a dynamic element without disrupting their fellow tank mates. To keep them happy, remember to provide plants and hiding spots for them to thrive. Overall, these fish are a great addition to a Rope Fish tank, bringing balance and vibrancy to the underwater world.
Glass Catfish
The Glass Catfish is a unique and fascinating species that can make an excellent ropé fish tank mate. These translucent creatures are known for their near-transparent bodies, making them a popular choice among aquarists.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 30 gal (114 L) minimum
- Temperature Range: 72 – 79°F (22 – 26°C)
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful and schooling
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, flake and pellet food as well as live or frozen food such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms
- Adult Size: 4-6 inches (10-15 cm)
When considering Glass Catfish as a tank mate for your rope fish, keep in mind that they are schooling fish that prefer to swim in small groups. Ensure that your tank is large enough for both species, and provide plenty of hiding spots to create a comfortable environment for both.
With appropriate care and tank setup, your rope fish and Glass Catfish can coexist peacefully and make a visually stunning addition to your home aquarium.
Bolivian Ram
The Bolivian Ram (Mikrogeophagus altispinosus) is a colorful, peaceful fish that can be an excellent tank mate for your rope fish. Native to South America, it is known for its vibrant colors and intriguing behaviors.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 30 gal (114 L)
- Temperature Range: 72-79°F (22-26°C)
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous; prefers high-quality flake or pellet food, with occasional treats of frozen and live food like daphnia, brine shrimp, and bloodworms
- Adult Size: Up to 3 inches (7.6 cm)
When considering a Bolivian Ram as a tank mate for your rope fish, keep in mind their preference for a planted tank with plenty of hiding spots. This fish is best kept in a pair or a small group and can coexist harmoniously with other peaceful fish. Just ensure your tank is large enough to accommodate everyone comfortably.
Dwarf Gourami
Dwarf Gouramis are colorful, peaceful fish that make excellent tank mates for a rope fish community. They are known for their vibrant colors and unique patterns, making them a beautiful addition to any tank. Although they can be shy at times, they tend to get along well with rope fish and can coexist harmoniously.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: 20 gallons (76 liters)
- Temperature Range: 72-80°F (22-27°C)
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous; they require a varied diet of flakes, pellets, and frozen/live foods.
- Adult Size: 3-3.5 inches (7.5-9 cm)
Adding Dwarf Gourami to your rope fish tank is a great idea, as they are effortless to care for, and their bright colors will surely liven up your aquatic environment. Give them plenty of hiding spots and ensure that they have a variety of foods, so they remain healthy and happy in their new home.
Black Skirt Tetra
Black Skirt Tetras are an attractive and lively addition to a Rope Fish tank. They have distinctive black markings on their body, resembling skirts. These schooling fish are known for their peaceful and playful nature.
Let’s take a look at their compatibility and requirements:
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: 20 gallons (75 liters) minimum
- Temperature Range: 72-79°F (22-26°C)
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, require a mix of flake, pellet, and occasional live foods
- Adult Size: Up to 2.5 inches (6.35 cm)
When introducing Black Skirt Tetras to your Rope Fish tank, ensure that the tank has plenty of hiding spots for them, as well as open swimming spaces. These fish will make an excellent addition to your aquatic environment.
Rummy-Nose Tetra
The Rummy-Nose Tetra is a popular choice for aquarium enthusiasts, especially when looking for a companion for rope fish. This species is known for its vibrant red nose and striking striped tail. They are a peaceful and active addition to any tank, constantly swimming and entertaining.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: 20 gal (75 liters)
- Temperature Range: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful and social
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore – high-quality flake food, freeze-dried and live foods
- Adult Size: 2 inches (5 cm)
Rummy-Nose Tetras thrive in a well-planted tank with plenty of hiding spots and room for swimming. To ensure a happy school, keep at least six Rummy-Nose Tetras together with your rope fish. Their peaceful nature and vibrant colors make them a delightful addition to any aquarium.
Blue Acara Cichlid
The Blue Acara Cichlid, scientifically known as Andinoacara pulcher, is a popular choice for rope fish enthusiasts. This beautiful, vibrant fish is hardy, easy to care for, and generally peaceful towards other tank mates.
Let’s dive into the key aspects of this captivating species:
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 30 gal (113 L) minimum
- Temperature Range: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Semi-aggressive
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, accepts both live and prepared foods
- Adult Size: Up to 6-8 inches (15-20 cm)
As you can see, the Blue Acara Cichlid may be the perfect companion for your rope fish. They share similar requirements for tank conditions, diet, and compatibility, allowing them to thrive together in a well-maintained aquatic environment.
And being quite an eye-catching species, Blue Acara Cichlids add a dash of color and charisma to your fish tank, creating a diverse and interesting underwater world for everyone to enjoy.
African Butterfly Fish
The African Butterfly Fish is a unique and fascinating addition to your rope fish tank. With their beautiful wing-like fins and distinct flattened body shape, they’ll undoubtedly capture your attention.
Here are some quick facts about this delicate fish species:
- Compatibility: 3 out of 5
- Tank Size: 30 gal (114 liters) minimum
- Temperature Range: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful but can be territorial
- Diet & Feeding: Carnivorous; wild-caught insects, frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp and bloodworms
- Adult Size: 5-6 inches (12-15 cm)
As an African Butterfly Fish owner, it’s important to provide floating plants to mimic their natural habitat. This creates a cozy and relaxing environment for the fish to explore and feel at ease.
Just be cautious with placing other small surface-dwelling aquatic creatures, as the African Butterfly Fish may consider them potential prey. Overall, this species can be a wonderful companion for your rope fish, as long as you maintain a harmonious tank environment.
Elephant Nose Fish
The Elephant Nose Fish, scientifically known as Gnathonemus petersii, is an interesting and unique tank mate for your rope fish. Known for their elongated snout, these fascinating creatures make a great addition to a diverse tank environment.
- Compatibility: 3/5
- Tank Size: 55 gallons (210 liters)
- Temperature Range: 73-82°F (23-28°C)
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful yet shy
- Diet & Feeding: Carnivorous – live and frozen foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp
- Adult Size: 9 inches (23 cm)
While keeping Elephant Nose Fish with rope fish can be a successful combination, it’s essential to monitor their interactions carefully. Ensure that both species coexist peacefully and provide plenty of hiding spots, as Elephant Nose Fish tend to be quite shy.
Remember to maintain a calm environment, as these fish are sensitive to water quality, and carefully plan their diet to ensure their health and well-being remain optimal.
Rainbowfish
Rainbowfish are a fantastic addition to any rope fish aquarium. Their unique colors and active nature make them very appealing to fish hobbyists.
Here are some key details about this colorful fish:
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 55 gallons (210 liters)
- Temperature Range: 72-78°F (22-25°C)
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, feed a mix of flake food and live/frozen foods
- Adult Size: 4-6 inches (10-15 cm)
These fish thrive in well-planted tanks with plenty of hiding spots, making them a perfect match for the rope fish’s preference for similar environments. They add both color and energy to your aquatic world, ensuring that your tank remains visually appealing for both yourself and your guests.
Clown Loach
The Clown Loach is one of the most popular aquarium fish, mainly due to its striking appearance and delightful personality. Known for its stunning bright orange body and black stripes, the Clown Loach adds a touch of color and movement to any tank. They are especially suitable as a tank mate for your Rope Fish.
Here are some key facts about Clown Loach:
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 75 gal (283 L) minimum
- Temperature Range: 77-86°F (25-30°C)
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, but they love to eat snails
- Adult Size: Up to 12 inches (30 cm) in length
Clown Loaches appreciate hiding spots in their tank, so make sure to provide some rocks, caves, and vegetation for them to retreat to. Although they may be a bit shy at first, once they acclimate to their new surroundings, they will become more active and sociable with other tankmates.
Zebra Loach
The Zebra Loach, also known as the Botia striata, is a beautiful and peaceful fish that can be a great addition to your Rope Fish tank. This striped, bottom-dwelling species is known for its striking appearance and helpful behavior.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 30 gal (114 L)
- Temperature Range: 73-79°F (23-26°C)
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, requires a mix of dry and live foods
- Adult Size: 4 inches (10 cm)
Zebra Loaches are especially useful as they help control snail populations in your tank. They get along well with Rope Fish thanks to their similar size and non-aggressive nature. When it comes to tank setup, be sure to provide plenty of hiding spots, like caves and crevices, for the Zebra Loach since they love to explore.
Black Ghost Knifefish
The Black Ghost Knifefish is an interesting and unique fish to include in your Rope Fish tank. These fish are known for their elongated, flattened body and the dark black color that gives them their name. They are nocturnal creatures and enjoy swimming upside down, which adds an intriguing element to your aquarium.
- Compatibility: 3/5
- Tank Size: 100 gal (378.5 liters)
- Temperature Range: 73-82°F (23-28°C)
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore; mainly feeds on small insects, worms, and crustaceans
- Adult Size: 20 inches (50.8 cm)
While the Black Ghost Knifefish can be challenging to care for, its fascinating behavior and appearance make it a rewarding addition to a Rope Fish tank. Be prepared to invest time and effort to maintain the water quality and ensure a peaceful tank environment.
Silver Dollar Fish
Silver Dollar Fish are an excellent addition to your rope fish tank, given their peaceful nature and compatibility with other fish species. These stunning fish are known for their remarkable silver color and round, disk-like shape, which is how they earned their name. They are native to South America and enjoy a well-planted tank with plenty of hiding spots.
A few important details regarding Silver Dollar Fish include:
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: 50 gal (198 liters)
- Temperature Range: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous – Feed them flakes, pellets, and live/frozen foods
- Adult Size: 6 inches (15 cm)
These schooling fish thrive in a group of five or more, ensuring they feel secure in their environment. Adequate swimming space is crucial, as they tend to be active swimmers when comfortable with their surroundings. Paired with their striking appearance and amicable nature, Silver Dollar Fish make a fantastic choice for your rope fish tank.
Swordtail Fish
Swordtail Fish are a popular choice for many aquarium enthusiasts due to their unique appearance and active nature. They are named after the elongated sword-like tail fin extension in males. These fish are known for their bright colors and interesting patterns, adding a splash of vibrancy to any tank.
- Compatibility: 4/5
- Tank Size: 15 gal (57 liters) minimum
- Temperature Range: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful and active
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous; should be fed a mix of vegetable-based flake food, frozen, and live food such as brine shrimp
- Adult Size: Up to 4 inches (10 cm)
Swordtail Fish generally have a good temperament, getting along with most tank mates, including Rope Fish. They need a proper mixture of hiding spots and swimming space to thrive. Just be sure to keep an eye out for overly aggressive behavior and address it if needed.
Pearl Gourami
The Pearl Gourami is a beautifully patterned freshwater fish that is also a great tank mate for your Rope Fish. They are known for their easily recognizable spot on their body and delicate-looking fins. Their compatibility with Rope Fish is quite high and they are an excellent addition to any community tank.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 30 gallons (113 liters)
- Temperature Range: 74 – 80°F (23 – 27°C)
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous, including flake foods, small pellets, and live or frozen foods like brine shrimp and bloodworms.
- Adult Size: 4 – 5 inches (10 – 12 cm)
Remember to always maintain good water parameters and provide hiding places for your Pearl Gourami to ensure their well-being. These stunning fish will add both color and an interesting dynamic to your Rope Fish tank.
Severum Cichlid
The Severum Cichlid is a unique and colorful addition to your rope fish tank. This attractive fish species will catch your eye with its vibrant appearance and engaging personality.
Here is a brief overview of the Severum Cichlid:
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 40 gal (151 liters) minimum, larger is recommended
- Temperature Range: 75°F to 84°F (24°C to 29°C)
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Generally peaceful, occasional territorial aggression
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous – provide a variety of high-quality flake, pellet, and frozen foods
- Adult Size: 8 to 12 inches (20 to 30 cm)
Severum Cichlids are generally compatible with rope fish and other mildly aggressive tank mates. As a social fish, they will thrive in a well-decorated and sizeable tank. Just ensure you create enough hiding spots for when they may feel territorial with other fish.
Pictus Catfish
The Pictus Catfish is an intriguing and appealing tank mate for your rope fish. With its energetic personality and beautiful appearance, it’s a great addition to any aquarium.
Here’s some vital information about the Pictus Catfish:
- Compatibility: 3/5
- Tank Size: 55 gal (208 liters)
- Temperature Range: 75-81°F (24-27°C)
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore (prefers live or frozen foods, also accepts high-quality pellets)
- Adult Size: 4-5 inches (10-12 cm)
Pictus Catfish are generally peaceful and, due to their docile behavior, they can comfortably coexist with other non-aggressive species like rope fish. Just make sure to provide ample hiding spots and enough space for them to swim freely to ensure a harmonious living environment.
Electric Yellow Lab
The Electric Yellow Lab, also known as the Yellow Lab Cichlid or Labidochromis caeruleus, is a stunning and vibrant addition to any rope fish tank. Its bright yellow coloration adds a pop of color and is sure to liven up your aquarium.
Here’s what you need to know about this fish species:
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 30 gallons (114 liters)
- Temperature Range: 72-78°F (22-25°C)
- Care Level: Easy
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivore (flake, pellet, and live foods)
- Adult Size: 4-5 inches (10-13 cm)
Electric Yellow Labs are compatible with rope fish because of their peaceful temperament. When kept in a suitable tank size with a stable temperature range, they can thrive alongside rope fish.
The key to keeping these two species together is providing plenty of hiding spots and ensuring a well-balanced diet. Electric Yellow Labs will make a wonderfully colorful addition to your rope fish tank.
Bumblebee Cichlid
The Bumblebee Cichlid is an eye-catching fish that makes a fantastic addition to your rope fish tank. This colorful fish, known for its vibrant stripes, brings life to any aquatic environment.
Here’s a quick overview of the Bumblebee Cichlid:
- Compatibility: 3 out of 5
- Tank Size: 50 gallons (190 liters)
- Temperature Range: 77-82°F (25-28°C)
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Semi-aggressive
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous and easily adapt to various food sources, including flakes, pellets, and live/frozen foods
- Adult Size: Up to 6 inches (15 cm)
The Bumblebee Cichlid may be a bit territorial but is generally easy to care for. Consider adding hiding spots or caves in your tank to help them feel comfortable and reduce stress.
Additionally, keep plants, rocks, and other decorations to maintain an interesting environment that keeps your rope fish and Bumblebee Cichlid engaged. Be mindful of their semi-aggressive tendencies and ensure that the tank mates are compatible to avoid conflicts.
Blue Moorii Cichlid
The Blue Moorii Cichlid, also known as Cyrtocara moorii, is a stunning fish species that makes for an excellent tank mate for your rope fish. Known for their striking appearance and relatively peaceful nature, they can add a pop of color to your aquarium.
- Compatibility: 4 out of 5
- Tank Size: 75 gallons (284 liters) minimum
- Temperature Range: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Generally peaceful, may show slight aggression towards other cichlids
- Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous – enjoys a mix of high-quality pellets, live, and frozen foods
- Adult Size: 8 inches (20 cm)
Pairing Blue Moorii Cichlids with rope fish can result in a harmonious and fascinating aquarium setup. However, always monitor their interactions to ensure the well-being of both species.
Do Rope Fish Make Good Tank Mates?
Rope fish, also known as Reed fish or Snake fish, can be fascinating tank mates for some species. These eel-like creatures are peaceful, nocturnal swimmers known for their unique rope-like appearance. They are fascinating pets, but it’s hard to tell if they make good tank mates.
To determine their compatibility, consider the following criteria:
- Tank Size: 75 gallons (284 liters) minimum
- Temperature Range: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Peaceful, nocturnal
- Diet & Feeding: Carnivorous, prefers meaty foods
- Adult Size: Up to 18 inches (45 cm)
Having a peaceful temperament makes Rope fish suitable tank mates for non-aggressive fish of their size or larger. However, their carnivorous diet means you should not house them with small fish or invertebrates, as they may become prey.
Before adding a Rope fish to your aquarium, ensure your tank’s size, conditions, and tank mates can provide a safe and harmonious environment for co-habitation.
How to Choose the Right Tank Mates for Rope Fish?
Selecting the perfect tank mates for your rope fish is essential. This guarantees a harmonious underwater habitat for your aquatic pets. Here are some important factors to consider when choosing tank companions for rope fish:
- Size Compatibility: Rope fish grow up to 18 inches (0.45 meters), so avoid small fish that can easily become prey. Opt for larger species that can coexist without fear of predation.
- Peaceful Temperament: Rope fish have a tranquil, shy nature and can get stressed by aggressive tank mates. Choose fish with a docile demeanor that won’t harass or intimidate your rope fish.
Some possible tank mates for your rope fish include:
- Cichlids: Despite their reputation for aggression, certain species like the severum cichlid, electric yellow cichlids, or blue acara can be suitable companions.
- Catfish: Species like the pictus catfish, redtail catfish, and Bristlenose pleco are beneficial for maintaining a clean tank environment.
- Gouramis: These peaceful, compatible tank mates come in various sizes and colors to add interest to your aquarium.
Be sure to closely observe your rope fish and their potential tank mates in the beginning. Compatibility varies even within species, so remain vigilant and prepared to make adjustments if needed. Ultimately, right tank mates will contribute to a thriving, healthy ecosystem for rope fish.
Conclusion
Rope fish can have a diverse community of tank mates when care is taken to select species with similar habitat requirements and behavior. With these 25 attractive and compatible species to choose from, you can build a fascinating and thriving aquatic environment for your rope fish.
We’d love to hear about your experiences with rope fish tank mates, so feel free to leave a comment!
