Fancy Fish and Aquascapes
Upside-Down Catfish ~ Synodontis nigriventris
Upside-Down Catfish ~ Synodontis nigriventris
Couldn't load pickup availability
Description & Care Guide:
The Upside-Down Catfish is a fascinating species known for its unique swimming behavior, where it often swims with its belly facing upwards. With its sleek, dark body and distinctive, elongated fins, this species adds an intriguing dynamic to any aquarium. Upside-Down Catfish are peaceful and nocturnal, making them great tank mates for larger community tanks. They are bottom dwellers and enjoy hiding among rocks and plants, scavenging for food. Their unusual swimming pattern and calm nature make them a great addition to species-specific or community aquariums.
-
Difficulty Level: Moderate
-
Tank Size: Minimum 30 gallons
-
Food Requirements: Omnivorous – will eat a variety of foods including pellets, flakes, live or frozen foods like bloodworms, and plant matter
-
Temperament: Peaceful, nocturnal; should be kept with larger, non-aggressive tank mates
-
Water Parameters: Prefers slightly acidic to neutral water (pH 6.5 - 7.5), temperatures between 75-80°F (24-27°C)
Wild Habitats/Origins:
Native to the Congo River basin in Central Africa, the Upside-Down Catfish thrives in slow-moving waters with plenty of hiding spots. In their natural habitat, they are often found in deep, murky rivers and streams with dense vegetation, where they scavenge the riverbed for food. The species prefers clear, oxygen-rich waters and is accustomed to the warm, tropical climate of its native region.
Fun Fact:
The Upside-Down Catfish is named for its extraordinary habit of swimming upside down, a behavior it uses to feed and navigate among the roots and debris of its natural habitat.