Abstract: A peristaltic pump for pumping fluids through a flexible tube is described which has a quick release and engagement mechanism that permits easy and rapid removal or insertion of the flexible tube into the device. The quick release and engagement mechanism of the invention consists of a shoe mounted for vertical displacement on the body of the pump. Upward movement of the shoe engages the flexible tube holding the fluid to be pumped and locks the tube against the roller assembly containing an eccentrically mounted roller which intermittently engages the tube and forces fluid out of it. To disengage the flexible tube from the pump, the shoe is moved downward out of contact with the flexible tube.