Blotched Upsidedown Catfish — a Mochokidae from Africa, peaceful giant of the bottom, indifferent to mid-water life. Reaches 7.6–11.2 cm; singly or in small groups depending on species size. 22–25 °C.
Care parameters
Water temperature
22–25 °C
pH
8–9
GH hardness
9–19 dGH
Adult length
7.6–11.2 cm
Minimum tank
151 L
Water layer
Middle of the water column
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Peaceful giant of the bottom, indifferent to mid-water life
Origin
Africa
Species overview
Synodontis nigriventris is a Mochokidae from Africa. Its barbels read the sand like fingers; coarse gravel slowly wears them down. It swims in mid-water. Adults reach 7.6–11.2 cm. Singly or in small groups depending on species size. Provide soft substrate, hiding tubes, and food that reaches the bottom before tankmates finish it. Maintain 22–25 °C at pH 8–9. A rewarding species for the aquarist who reads before buying.
Native biotope
Habitat
Warm freshwater streams and lakes
Flow
Still to gentle current
Dissolved O₂
Moderate oxygen levels
Aquascape & hardware
Substrate
Fine sand and gravel
Hardscape
Driftwood and smooth stones
Plants
Hardy common aquarium plants
Temperament, diet & tankmates
Schooling
Singly or in small groups depending on species size
Diet
Opportunistic bottom-feeder with a broad palate
Recommended tankmates
Other similar-sized bottom fish — Share the floor peaceably
Avoid keeping with
Tiny fish that fit in its mouth — Vanish at night
Breeding & notes
Sexual dimorphism
Subtle external differences
Breeding method
Egg-depositing in hollows; some guard, some abandon