Family: Mochokidae
Distribution: Synodontis nigriventris, commonly known as Blotched Upside-down Catfish, is a freshwater species found in the Congo River basin and the Kasai and Ubangi drainages, Africa. There are reports it has also been seen in Makaka, outside the Congo River basin.
PH: 6.0 – 8.0
Temperature: 22°C – 26C (72 – 79F)
Hardness: 5 – 12 dH
Description: Synodontis nigriventris can reach a maximum length of around 10 cm in an aquarium. This catfish has a pale grey to cream colouration and dark blotches over its body; it has a black belly and dark-spotted fins. It also has large, very narrowly separated eyes, and a dorsal spine with a very smooth anterior face. The Blotched Upside-down Catfish swims upside down, giving it its common name.
Diet: The Blotched Upside-down Catfish eats insect larvae in the wild; it an aquarium environment it can be given tablets and a quality flake, along with the occasional servings of Daphnia and bloodworm.
Breeding: Synodontis nigriventris should be fed live foods before spawning. It will appreciate hiding spots – upturned flowerpots or PVC pipe will suffice – to conduct its spawning in. The eggs will hatch after about two days and the fry should be free swimming within 3 – 4 days. You can offer the youngsters a diet of freshly hatched brine shrimp.
Comments: A group of Synodontis nigriventris should be kept in a tank of at least 10 gallons. Your tank should be well-planted – broad-leaved plants are ideal – and you can add driftwood, rocks and caves for hiding locations. You should ensure the water is moderately soft and a gravel substrate is in place. This species is easy to look after and is therefore suitable for beginners.
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Recommended Compatible Species: Synodontis nigriventris is a peaceful species that should be kept in groups. They will live happily with most Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetraand Black Tetra). They are also great tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, CorydorasCatfish (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppyand Platyand most Gourami(such as the Blue Gourami and Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also can live happily with most Danio(particularly the Zebra Danioand Pearl Danio) and also many Killifish make great tank mates.
