Upside-down catfish
Synodontis nigriventris · Mochokidae
Also known as Synodontis nigriventris
Beginner
Swims inverted under leaves and wood; small, peaceful and nocturnal.
In short: An upside-down catfish needs at least 75 L (20 US gal), water at 23–28 °C (73–82 °F) and pH 6–7.8. It is peaceful, best kept in groups of 4 or more, and rated beginner to keep.
- Minimum tank
- 75 L (20 US gal)
- Temperature
- 23–28 °C (73–82 °F)
- pH
- 6–7.8
- Adult size
- 8 cm (3.1 in)
- Group size
- 4+
Care requirements
- Minimum tank volume
- 75 L (20 US gal)
- Temperature
- 23–28 °C (73–82 °F)
- pH
- 6–7.8
- Hardness
- 4–18 dGH
- Lifespan
- 5–8 years
- Diet
- Omnivore — sinking pellets, frozen bloodworm, tablets.
- Care level
- Beginner
Origin & habitat
- Native region
- Congo River basin
- Water type
- Freshwater
- Biotope
- Leafy, shaded backwaters
- Natural conditions
- Dim light, wood and broad leaves to hang under.
Behaviour & stocking
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Minimum group
- 4 fish
- Swims
- All levels
- Good tank mates
- Congo tetraKribensisRasboras
- Avoid
- Bright bare tanksAggressive cichlids
Breeding & difficulty
- Breeding difficulty
- Advanced
- Sexing
- Females are plumper.
- Notes
- Cave spawner; uncommon in aquaria.
- Common ailments
- IchBarbel damage
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