Upside Down Catfish (Synodontis nigriventris)

The Upside Down Catfish is also known as the Blotched Upside Down Catfish and is from the rivers and lakes of Central Africa within the Congo Basin. It is one of the smaller Synodontis catfish, and is an opaque color with many black spots and markings. This species is an upside-down catfish, as it will hang in an inverted position, as well as feed from the surface of the water. These catfish will also feed upon algae that forms on the decorations and plants within the aquarium.

The Upside Down Catfish will appreciate a heavily planted aquarium of 30 gallons or more, with driftwood and crevices for hiding. Sensitive to nitrates, good water conditions are necessary. It prefers a current in the aquarium. It can be kept as a schooling fish or in an aquarium with other small Synodontis species.

Currently, the Upside Down Catfish is not being successfully bred in the aquarium.

The Upside Down Catfish is an omnivore and should be offered sinking catfish pellets, freeze-dried bloodworms and tubifex, plus a good quality flake food. It will also feed upon algae in the aquarium, and is a good algae controller for a planted community aquarium.

Approximate Purchase Size: 1/2" to 2-1/2"

Care details

• Temperature: 75 - 82° F
• dKH: 4 - 12
• Color: Black and White
• Family: Mochokidae
• Diet: Omnivore