Upside Down Catfish
Published August 6, 2019
Author: Mike - FishLore Admin
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The Upside Down Catfish (Synodontis nigriventris) is an interesting catfish that starts swimming upside down at around two months of age. They are frequently found near cover such as driftwood, caves or plants.
They do well in groups of 5 or more and they will do well fish species that have similar water requirements and temperament. They get to around 3.75 inches (9.6 cm) when grown and an aquarium that is 30 gallons in size or larger is recommended.
They are omnivores and will eat algae, sinking pellet foods, fresh veggies like zucchini or cucumbers. Keep them in groups and provide plenty of driftwood, caves, etc to help make them feel at home.
Upside Down Catfish Care
Scientific Name : Synodontis nigriventris
Common Names : Upside Down Catfish, Blotched upsidedown catfish
Care Level : Easy
Size : Up to 3.75 inches (9.6 cm)
Water Parameters : pH 6 - 8 | Temperature : 71°F - 79°F (22°C - 26°C) | Water Hardness : 5° to 12° dH
Lifespan : several years
Origin / Habitat : Congo River Basin in Africa
Temperament / Behavior : Somewhat shy and reclusive
Breeding : No successful breeding attempts in the home aquarium that we know of. They are egg layers and will tend to the eggs.
Aquarium Size : 30 gallons (115 liters), does well in groups
Tank Mates : Similar sized fish species with similar water requirements.
Fish Disease : Freshwater Fish Disease
Food : Considered an omnivore but will eats lots of algae and may go after sinking pellets and algae wafers.
Tank Region : Likes to hide near caves or driftwood
Gender : Males may be darker colored and slightly smaller.
Photo Credit : Photos copyright JJPhoto.dk
More Catfish Profiles
Royal Pleco
Gets up to around 17 inches so you need a large aquarium if you want to keep this pleco.
Schwartz's Cory
Another little corydoras species that seems to do better when kept in small groups of 3 or more.
