Bigeye Synodontis Catfish
From Microcosm Aquarium Explorer
A generally neighborly African catfish, best kept in groups. Aaron Norman
[edit] Overview
An immensely likable, peaceful species that will put on a continuous show when kept in groups. Synodontis catfishes are perfect tankmates for African Rift Lake Cichlids, as well as larger tetras and other characins.
Family: Mochokidae
Other common name(s):
- Bigeye Squeaker
Native range:
Habitat: Provide lots of "caves" (i.e., piles of rocks with holes throughout, inverted flowerpots, large PVC pipes), and include fine-grade rounded gravel substrate. Plants are optional.
Maximum length: 20 cm (8 in)
Minimum aquarium size: 114 L (30 gal)
Water: Freshwater 22 °C (295 K, 72 °F) - 26 °C (299 K, 79 °F)
General swimming level: Bottom
[edit] Feeding
Carnivore. In the wild, often feed heavily on snails and will do the same in the aquarium. Accept a wide range of aquarium fare, including tablet and pellet foods, and a wide variety of flakes. In addition, live and frozen foods, such as brine shrimp and bloodworms, are appreciated. Feed in the morning and at lights-out time at night.
[edit] Aquarium Compatibility
Generally peaceful. Keep in groups of at least three.
[edit] Breeding/Propagation
Synodontis breeding events in aquaria are not common, but if properly conditioned (daily feedings of live black worms and Spirulina flakes have been used) and provided a flowerpot spawning cave, they may reward the aquarist with fertile eggs.
[edit] Notes
Synodontis catfishes are known as "squeakers" by local African peoples for the sounds they make when taken from the water. When netted, they often produce squeaking noises.
| Common name | Bigeye Synodontis Catfish +, and Bigeye Squeaker + |
| Family | Mochokidae + |
| Genus | Synodontis + |
| Image credit | AN + |
| Maximum length | 8 in + |
| Minimum aquarium size | 30 gal + |
| Native range | Congo + |
| Reference | 101 Best Tropical Fishes + |
| Specific name | alberti + |
| Swimming level | Bottom + |
| Text credit | KW + |
| Water max temp | 299 K (26 °C, 79 °F) + |
| Water min temp | 295 K (22 °C, 72 °F) + |
| Water type | Freshwater + |