Synodontis Catfish Ideal Care Guide: Look, Diet | Updated 2024

The Synodontis Catfish is a freshwater fish that originates from Africa. It gets its name from the Greek words “syn,” meaning together, and “odonto,” meaning tooth.

The word catfish comes from the Latin word “catus,” which means cat-like. This refers to the barbels on the fish, which resemble a cat’s whiskers.

The Synodontis Catfish is a member of the family Mochokidae, which contains more than 190 species of African catfishes. The most common type of Synodontis found in aquariums is the S. multipunctatus or polka-dot synodontis.

It has a dark brown body with white spots all over it. In this article, we will learn about the care of Synodontis Catfish.

Species Summary

Scientific Name:	Synodontis multipunctatus
Common Name:	Polka dot catfish, Synodontis Catfish
Care Level:	Easy
Life expectancy:	8-10 years
Size:	Up to 8 inches (20 cm) long
Color Form:	Brown body with white spots
Temperament:	Peaceful
Diet:	Omnivore
Water Temperature:	72°-82°F
pH Levels:	6.5 to 7.8
Water Hardness:	4 to 15 KH

The lifespan of Synodontis Catfish is between eight and ten years, and they can grow to be about eight inches long. They are peaceful fish but can be territorial with their kind.

It is best to keep them in pairs or groups of three or more. They are omnivores, and their diet should consist of meaty and plant-based foods.

Synodontis Catfish are native to Africa and are a member of the Mochokidae family of catfishes. They are also known as upside-down catfish because they can swim upside down. They are peaceful fish that make great tank mates for other community fish.

They are found in freshwater rivers and lakes in Africa and prefer habitats with plenty of hiding places, such as caves and overhangs, and are also known to inhabit brackish waters.

Synodontis Catfish Appearance

As we mentioned, Synodontis Catfish are dark brown with white spots all over their bodies. They are also available in brown, white, black, pink, and red. They have four pairs of barbels (whiskers) on their faces, which they use to help them find food. These barbels are also sensitive to touch and taste, which helps the fish navigate in murky waters.

They are also known as upside-down catfish because they can swim upside down.

The cost varies depending on the size and color. A juvenile can cost between $5 and $10. An adult can cost between $10 and $20.

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Synodontis Catfish Lifespan

The lifespan of Synodontis Catfish is between eight to ten years. The lifespan of Synodontis Catfish is about ten years in the wild.

Synodontis Catfish Size And Growth Rate

Synodontis Catfish can grow to be about eight to nine inches long. The average size is about eight inches.

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Breeding And Reproduction

Synodontis Catfish are known to breed in the wild during the rainy season. The female fish will lay her eggs in a cave or other hidden location.

Once the currents carry the eggs hatch, the fry (baby fish) to different parts of the river.

Synodontis Catfish are known to breed with other fish. Synodontis Catfish are not difficult to breed in captivity. If you provide them with the proper conditions, they will breed independently.

Gestation Period And Pregnancy Symptoms

To promote breeding, you must provide the fish with the proper conditions. The water temperature, pH, and hardness should be as required. You will also need to give the fish plenty of hiding places, such as caves and overhangs.

These hiding places will provide the fish with a place to lay their eggs. It is also best to keep the fish in pairs or groups of three or more. This will help to promote breeding.

The gestation period for Synodontis Catfish is about 28 days. During this time, the female fish will lay her eggs in a cave or other hidden location. The eggs of Synodontis Catfish are small and sticky. Once the currents carry the eggs hatch, the fry (baby fish) to different parts of the river.

You may notice that your female fish is getting bigger as she nears the end of her gestation period. This is normal and is caused by the eggs inside her body.

The fry (baby fish) of Synodontis Catfish are tiny and need to be fed live food such as brine shrimp and bloodworms. You can also provide them with a high-quality diet that is rich in protein.

As the fry grows, you can feed them frozen or freeze-dried foods. You should also provide them with a high-quality pellet or flake food.

How They Are Different From Other Catfishes

Synodontis Catfish are different from other catfishes in a few ways. One of the most notable differences is their size. Synodontis Catfish are much smaller than other types of catfish. They also have a longer lifespan and are more active during the day.

Another difference is their diet. Synodontis Catfish are omnivores, while most other types of catfish are carnivores. This means that they will eat both plant and animal matter.

Finally, Synodontis Catfish are more social than other types of catfish. They do well in pairs or groups and enjoy interacting with their tank mates.

Synodontis Catfish Behavior and Temperament

Synodontis Catfish are peaceful fish that do well in pairs or groups. They enjoy interacting with their tank mates and will often be seen swimming around the tank in a group.

Synodontis Catfish are social fish that enjoy interacting with their owners. They are not aggressive and often swim up to the glass to greet their owner. Yes, Synodontis Catfish generally get along well with other fish.

However, as mentioned above, they may nibble on the fins of other fish in the tank. If you have other fish in the tank, keeping an eye on them is best to ensure the Synodontis Catfish are not bullying them.

Synodontis Catfish Care Guide

Synodontis Catfish are known to shed their skin every few weeks. This natural process helps the fish eliminate any parasites that may be living on their skin.

During the shedding process, you may notice that your fish’s colors appear to be faded. This is normal, and your fish will regain its color once the shedding process is complete.

Here, we will share many important things necessary to give the best care to Synodontis Catfish.

Synodontis Catfish Food & Diet

Synodontis Catfish are omnivores and will eat a variety of foods.

The diet should consist of the following:

• Pellets
• Flakes
• Live food
• Frozen food
• Vegetables
• Fruits

Pellets and flakes are the mainstay of the diet and should be given daily. Live food and frozen food can be given a few times a week.

Vegetables and fruits can be given weekly. The diet should be varied to keep the fish healthy. A variety of pellets, flakes, live food, frozen food, vegetables, and fruits should be offered.

Feeding Schedule

The feeding schedule will vary depending on the age and size of the fish. Juvenile Synodontis Catfish should be fed 3 to 4 times a day. Adult Synodontis Catfish should be fed 2 to 3 times a day. The amount of food given at each feeding should be enough that the fish can eat in 2 to 3 minutes.

Diet Foods To Avoid

Some foods should be avoided in the diet. These foods can cause health problems for the fish. Foods to avoid include:

• Processed foods
• Fatty acids
• High-protein foods
• Live food
• Frozen food
• Vegetables
• Fruits
• Pellets
• Flakes

Processed foods, fatty acids, and high-protein foods can cause health problems for fish. Live food, frozen food, vegetables, fruits, pellets, and flakes should be in moderation.

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Tank Size

The minimum tank size for Synodontis Catfish is 20 gallons. You will need a larger tank if you keep more than one fish. It is best to provide each fish with at least 10 gallons of space.

Water Requirements

Synodontis Catfish prefer freshwater but can also tolerate brackish water. The water temperature should be 72° to 82°Fahrenheit (Around 75°F is ideal). The pH levels should be 6.5 to 7.8, and the water hardness should be 4 to 15 KH.

Tank Mates

Synodontis Catfish are easy to care for and make great tank mates for other community fish. They are peaceful fish but can be territorial with their kind. It is best to keep them in pairs or groups of three or more.

Synodontis Catfish are peaceful fish that do well with other peaceful fish.

Some good tank mates for Synodontis Catfish include:

• Gouramis
• Danios
• Barbs
• Rasboras
• Loaches

Tank Region

Synodontis Catfish are bottom dwellers and will often be seen swimming near the bottom of the tank. They enjoy hiding among the plants and rocks in the tank.

Tank Decorations

Decorations can be used to provide hiding places for the fish. A variety of decorations should be used in the tank. Live plants, artificial plants, rocks, driftwood, and caves can all be used. Synodontis Catfish are not known to eat decorations.

The following is a list of some good decoration choices:

• Live plants
• Artificial plants
• Rocks
• Driftwood
• Caves

Live plants, artificial plants, rocks, driftwood, and caves are all good decoration choices for Synodontis Catfish tanks. Synodontis Catfish prefer a tank with plenty of plants and hiding places.

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Heater

Synodontis Catfish are tropical fish and prefer a water temperature of 72 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit (Around 75°F is ideal). A heater is necessary to maintain this temperature in the tank.

The suggested heaters are:

• Hydor ETH 200W External Aquarium Heater
• Aqueon Submersible Aquarium Heater

Filter

Synodontis Catfish produce a lot of waste and need an excellent filter to clean the water.

The recommended filters are:

• Fluval FX6 Canister Filter
• AquaClear Powerhead Filter
• Eheim Classic Canister Filter
• Penn-Plax Cascade Canister Filter

Lighting

Synodontis Catfish do not require special lighting and can be kept in a tank with standard aquarium lighting.

Water changes

Water changes are an essential part of Synodontis Catfish care. Water changes help to remove waste and keep the water clean. It is recommended to do a 25% water change every week.

Water Quality

It is essential to maintain good water quality in your tank. You will need to do regular water changes and clean the filter regularly. You should also test the water parameters regularly. If the water quality deteriorates, it can lead to sickness and death in your fish.

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What Are The Symptoms Of Poor Water Quality

The symptoms of poor water quality include:

• Fish appearing lethargic or “lazy”
• Fish breathing rapidly
• Fish gasping at the surface of the water
• Fish staying at the bottom of the tank
• Fish hiding
• Fish losing their appetite

What Are The Causes Of Poor Water Quality?

Many things can cause poor water quality in your tank.

Some of the most common causes include:

• Overcrowding
• Not enough filtration
• Not enough aeration
• Poor diet
• Inadequate water changes
• Accumulation of waste in the tank

How To Avoid Poor Water Quality

There are a few things that you can do to avoid poor water quality in your tank.

Some of these things include:

• Regularly cleaning the filter
• Regularly doing water changes
• Feeding your fish a high-quality diet
• Testing the water parameters regularly
• Not overcrowding your tank

Gravel Vacuuming

Gravel vacuuming is also an essential part of Synodontis Catfish care. Gravel vacuuming helps to remove waste and keep the gravel clean. It is recommended to vacuum the gravel once a week.

Gravel vacuuming is essential because Synodontis Catfish live at the bottom of the tank, and their waste can build up in the gravel.

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Substrate

Synodontis Catfish prefer a sandy substrate.

The recommended substrates are:

• Fluval Aquatic Sand
• CaribSea Eco-Complete Planted Aquarium Substrate
• Zoo Med AquaFirm Natural Planting Substrate
• Exo Terra Plantation Soil

Cleaning The Tank

It is essential to clean the tank regularly to keep the water quality high. It is recommended to clean the filter every month and the gravel every two weeks. The tank should also be cleaned if there is algae build-up.

Algae Control

Algae can be a problem in Synodontis Catfish tanks. Algae can quickly grow and cover the tank if it is not controlled. Many products can be used to control algae.

Some of the recommended Algae controllers are:

• API Algae Fix
• Green Clean Algae Destroyer
• Excel Algaefix
• Tetra AlgaeControl

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Ammonia levels

Ammonia levels should be monitored closely in Synodontis Catfish tanks. Ammonia can build up quickly in tanks with high waste levels. Water changes and gravel vacuuming can help to control ammonia levels.

The ammonia levels should be tested weekly, and water changes should be done if the levels are high. The range for ammonia levels is 0 to 0.25 ppm.

Nitrate levels

Nitrate levels should also be monitored closely in Synodontis Catfish tanks. Nitrate can build up quickly in tanks with high waste levels. Water changes and gravel vacuuming can help to control nitrate levels.

The nitrate levels should be tested weekly, and water changes should be done if the levels are high. The range for nitrate level is 0 to 20 ppm.

Nitrite levels

Nitrite levels should also be monitored closely in Synodontis Catfish tanks. Nitrite can build up quickly in tanks with high waste levels. Water changes and gravel vacuuming can help to control nitrite levels.

The nitrite levels should be tested weekly, and water changes should be done if the levels are high. The range for nitrite levels is 0 to 0.5 ppm.

Oxygen Levels

Oxygen levels should be monitored closely in Synodontis Catfish tanks. Oxygen levels can drop quickly in tanks with high waste levels. The oxygen levels should be tested weekly, and water changes should be done if the levels are low. The range for oxygen level is 6 to 8 ppm.

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Protein Skimmer

A protein skimmer can be used to remove waste from the water. Protein skimmers are not necessary but can help keep the water clean. Protein skimmers work by eliminating waste from the water before it has a chance to decompose.

Supplements

Some supplements can be added to the diet to provide additional nutrition.

Supplements that can be added to the diet include:

• Vitamins
• Minerals
• Amino acids
• Live food
• Frozen food

Vitamins, minerals, and amino acids can be added to the diet to provide additional nutrition.

What About Freshwater Aquarium Plants?

Plants can be a great addition to Synodontis Catfish tanks. Plants help to improve water quality and provide hiding places for fish. A variety of plants should be added to the tank. Live plants are the best, but artificial plants can also be used. Synodontis Catfish are not known to eat plants.

The following is a list of some good plant choices:

• Anacharis
• Hornwort
• Java Fern
• Jungle Vallisneria
• Water Lettuce
• Water Sprite
• Wisteria

Anacharis, hornwort, java fern, jungle Vallisneria, water lettuce, water sprite, and wisteria are all good plant choices for Synodontis Catfish tanks.

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Potential Fish Diseases

• Ich: Ich is caused by a protozoan parasite that infected fish transmit. The parasite enters the fish through the gills and starts to reproduce.

Live food, plants, and decorations can also transmit the parasites. The symptoms of ich include white spots on the skin, fins, and gills. The fish may also scratch themselves on objects in the tank.

• Fin Rot: A bacterial infection causes fin rot. The bacteria enter the fish through the skin and fins. The symptoms of fin rot include fraying and disintegration of the fins.
• Mouth Rot: Mouth rot is caused by a bacterial infection. The bacteria enter the fish through the mouth and gills. The symptoms of mouth rot include ulcers on the mouth and gills.
• Swimming Bladder Disease: A bacterial infection causes swimming bladder disease. The bacteria enter the fish through the digestive tract. The symptoms of swimming bladder disease include difficulty swimming, floating upside down, and buoyancy problems.
• Dropsy: Dropsy is caused by a bacterial infection. The bacteria enter the fish through the skin and fins. The symptoms of dropsy include bloating, scale protrusion, and lack of appetite.
• Hole in the Head Disease: A hole in the head is caused by a protozoan parasite. The parasite enters the fish through the skin. The symptoms of a hole-in-the-head disease include holes in the head and face and lethargy.
• Popeye: A bacterial infection causes popeye. The bacteria enter the fish through the eyes. The symptoms of popeye include bulging eyes and cloudy eyes.
• Red Pest: Red pest is caused by a protozoan parasite. The parasite enters the fish through the skin. The symptoms of red pests include red lesions on the skin.
• Velvet Disease: A protozoan parasite causes velvet disease. The parasite enters the fish through the skin. The symptoms of velvet disease include gold or rusty-colored spots on the skin.
• White Spot Disease: A protozoan parasite causes white spot disease. The parasite enters the fish through the skin. The symptoms of white spot disease include white spots on the skin.
• Parasite infections: Parasites cause parasite infections. The parasites enter the fish through the skin, fins, or gills. The symptoms of parasite infections include itching, scratching, and inflammation.
• Worm infections: Worms cause worm infections. The worms enter the fish through the skin, fins, or gills. The symptoms of worm infections include itching, scratching, and inflammation.
• Swim Bladder Disorder: Swim is a physical abnormality or injury that causes bladder disorder. The symptoms of swim bladder disorder include difficulty swimming, floating upside down, and buoyancy problems.
• Gastrointestinal Disorder: A physical abnormality or injury that causes the gastrointestinal disorder. The symptoms of the gastrointestinal disorder include vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation.

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Preventative Measures

Several things can be done to prevent fish diseases.

• Quarantine new fish: When adding new fish to an existing aquarium, it is important to quarantine the new fish. This will help to prevent the spread of disease.
• Keep the aquarium clean: A clean aquarium is less likely to develop diseases. It is essential to remove debris and uneaten food from the aquarium regularly.
• Perform regular water changes: Water changes help to remove toxins and parasites from the water. It is essential to perform a water change at least once a week.
• Use a filter: A filter will help to keep the water clean and free of toxins.
• Use an aquarium heater: An aquarium heater helps to maintain a consistent water temperature. A constant water temperature is essential for the health of fish.
• Use an aquarium cover: An aquarium cover helps to keep the water clean and free of debris.
• Use an air pump: An air pump helps to circulate the water and keep it oxygenated.
• Use live plants: Live plants help to filter the water and provide hiding places for fish.
• Avoid overfeeding: Overfeeding can cause water pollution and lead to disease. It is essential to feed the fish only as much as they can eat in a few minutes.
• Do not overcrowd the aquarium: An overcrowded aquarium is more likely to develop diseases. It is essential to make sure that the aquarium is not too crowded.
• Get your fish from a reputable source: It is essential to get your fish from a reputable source. This will help ensure that the fish are healthy and disease-free.
• Learn about the diseases: It is essential to learn about the conditions affecting fish. This will help you to identify the symptoms and treat the infection quickly.

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Treatment And Medications For Diseases

There are several treatments and medications available for fish diseases.

• Tetracycline: Tetracycline is an antibiotic that is effective against many fish diseases. It is used to treat diseases in fish, such as white spot disease, velvet disease, and fish tuberculosis.
• Nitrofurazone: Nitrofurazone is an effective antibiotic against many fish diseases. It is used to treat diseases in fish, such as white spot disease, velvet disease, and fish tuberculosis.
• Chloramphenicol: Chloramphenicol is an antibiotic that is effective against many fish diseases. It is used to treat diseases in fish, such as white spot disease, velvet disease, and fish tuberculosis.
• Metronidazole: Metronidazole is an effective antibiotic against many fish diseases. It is used to treat diseases in fish, such as white spot disease, velvet disease, and fish tuberculosis.
• Furan Compounds: Furan compounds are effective against various fish diseases. They are used to treat diseases in fish, such as white spot disease, velvet disease, and fish tuberculosis.
• Malachite Green: Malachite green is effective against various fish diseases. It is used to treat diseases in fish, such as white spot disease, velvet disease, and fish tuberculosis.
• Formaldehyde: Formaldehyde is effective against various fish diseases. It is used to treat diseases in fish, such as white spot disease, velvet disease, and fish tuberculosis.
• Benzocaine: Benzocaine is effective against various fish diseases. It is used to treat diseases in fish, such as white spot disease, velvet disease, and fish tuberculosis.
• Copper Sulfate: Copper sulfate is effective against many fish diseases. It is used to treat diseases in fish, such as white spot disease, velvet disease, and fish tuberculosis.
• Quinine Sulfate: Quinine sulfate is effective against many fish diseases. It is used to treat diseases in fish, such as white spot disease, velvet disease, and fish tuberculosis.
• Kanamycin: Kanamycin is effective against many fish diseases. It is used to treat diseases in fish, such as white spot disease, velvet disease, and fish tuberculosis.
• Streptomycin: Streptomycin is effective against many fish diseases. It is used to treat diseases in fish, such as white spot disease, velvet disease, and fish tuberculosis.
• Tylosin: Tylosin is effective against many fish diseases. It is used to treat diseases in fish, such as white spot disease, velvet disease, and fish tuberculosis.
• Erythromycin: Erythromycin is effective against many fish diseases. It is used to treat diseases in fish, such as white spot disease, velvet disease, and fish tuberculosis.
• Oxytetracycline: Oxytetracycline is effective against many fish diseases. It is used to treat diseases in fish, such as white spot disease, velvet disease, and fish tuberculosis.
• Chloramphenicol: Chloramphenicol is effective against various fish diseases. It is used to treat diseases in fish, such as white spot disease, velvet disease, and fish tuberculosis.

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Are They Dangerous?

No, Synodontis Catfish are not dangerous. However, they have been known to nibble on the fins of other fish in the tank. If you have other fish in the tank, keeping an eye on them is best to ensure the Synodontis Catfish are not bullying them.

Advantages Of Having Synodontis Catfish In Your Tank

• Beautiful: The Synodontis Catfish is a lovely fish. They are often referred to as the "butterfly of the aquarium" because of their brightly colored fins and patterns.
• Peaceful: The Synodontis Catfish is a very peaceful fish. They are not aggressive and get along well with other fish in the tank.
• Cleaner: The Synodontis Catfish is an excellent, cleaner fish. They will help keep the tank clean by eating algae and uneaten food that has fallen to the bottom.
• Fun To Watch: The Synodontis Catfish is an entertaining fish to watch. They are constantly swimming around and exploring their surroundings. They are also very active at night, making them great fish to watch when relaxing in front of the aquarium.
• Easy To Care For: The Synodontis Catfish is a straightforward fish to care for. They are hardy and can tolerate a wide range of water conditions. They are also straightforward to feed, as they eat just about anything you put in the tank.
• Long Life Span: The Synodontis Catfish is long-lived. They can live for up to 10 years, much longer than most other fish.
• Suitable For Beginners: The Synodontis Catfish is a good fish for beginners. They are easy to care for and are very hardy. They are also a good choice for people new to the hobby of fishkeeping.
• Suitable For Experienced Aquarium Keepers: The Synodontis Catfish is good for experienced aquarium keepers. They are easy to care for and are very hardy. They are also a good choice for people who have been keeping fish for a while and are looking for a new challenge.
• Can Be Kept In A Community Tank: The Synodontis Catfish can be kept in a community tank. They are peaceful and get along well with other fish. They are also a good choice for people looking for a fish that will not bother other fish in the tank.
• Can Live In A Wide Range Of Water Conditions: Synodontis Catfish can live in a wide range of water conditions. They are hardy and can tolerate various pH levels and temperatures. This makes them a good choice for living in areas where the water conditions are not ideal for other fish.

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Disadvantages Of Having Synodontis Catfish In Your Tank

• They Grow Large: The Synodontis Catfish can grow to be quite large. They can reach lengths of up to 18 inches, so you need to ensure that you have a large enough tank for them.
• They Eat A Lot: The Synodontis Catfish are very active eaters. They will often eat all of the food in the tank, which can leave other fish hungry. If you have other fish in the tank, you will need to make sure that you feed them more often.
• They Are Nighttime Hunters: The Synodontis Catfish are very active at night. This can be a problem if you have other fish in the tank that are not nocturnal. The Synodontis Catfish may eat the other fish if they cannot find food at night.
• They May Eat Your Plants: The Synodontis Catfish are known to nibble on plants. If you have live plants in your tank, you may consider getting artificial plants instead.
• They Produce A Lot Of Waste: The Synodontis Catfish produce a lot of waste. This can be a problem if you do not have a sound filtration system.
• They Are Not Easy To Breed: The Synodontis Catfish are not easy to breed. If you are looking to breed them, you will need to have a lot of patience and a lot of luck.
• They Are Not Suitable For All Tanks: The Synodontis Catfish are unsuitable for all tanks. They need a tank that is at least 20 gallons in size. They also need a tank with a lot of hiding places.

If you do not have a large enough tank or enough hiding places, the Synodontis Catfish will not be happy.

• They May Eat Your Other Fish: The Synodontis Catfish have been known to nibble on the fins of other fish in the tank. If you have other fish in the tank, keeping an eye on them is best to ensure the Synodontis Catfish are not bullying them.

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Conclusion

Synodontis Catfish make good pets. They are very peaceful and easy to care for. They are also a lot of fun to watch as they swim around the tank. Synodontis Catfish are a great addition to any tank.

They are small, active, and great additions to a community tank. They are also easy to care for and make excellent beginner fish. If you are looking for a new fish for your tank, consider Synodontis Catfish!