Ropefish and Hillstream Loaches?

[Jack CO]

Just wondering if ropefish could coexist with hillstream loaches in my 60 gallon. My 4 hillstreams that are currently quarantining are close to full size, but I’m worried that eventually a full sized ropefish might try to predate on them. I don’t think they will because of how wide bodied they are, but I figure it doesn’t hurt to ask. The ropefish my lfs has are around 8 inches, but only the girth of 2 pencils. 

[Fish Folk]

You're probably fine. I'd learn _exactly_ what they're used to eating so that you can immediately provide that for them. I suspect a well-planted busy eco system where there are other species of fish fooling about would serve as a distraction too. Kribs . . . Congo Tetras . . . good options. You've probably already seen this video, but for those who haven't been introduced to the species, here's a nice on-ramp...

 

Edited July 14, 2023 by Fish Folk

[Jack CO]

On 7/14/2023 at 2:28 AM, Fish Folk said:

You've probably already seen this video

I have seen the video. It’s that video along with the 8 foot tank build that gives me hope in keeping them with the hillstream loaches. There’s so many little fish species in that tank that they just leave alone

[Lennie]

On 7/14/2023 at 7:24 PM, Jack CO said:

There’s so many little fish species in that tank that they just leave alone

It is hard to count to see if they are actually left alone ;D 

[Luciferkrist]

Just be sure you have a TIGHT lid and your filter input is above the water line... Or you will have a ropefish in your filter or floor.

[Kunersbettas]

You should be fine. If your hillstreams like to lay on the plants/stick to glass, he should ignore them.