Polka Dot Squeaker Care Guide
Synodontis angelicus is a Congo Basin catfish with spotted, blotched coloration that changes with age, growing large and living long.
Overview
The polka dot squeaker (Synodontis angelicus) is an upside-down catfish of the family Mochokidae, described by Louise Schilthuis in 1891. Juveniles measuring 4-9 cm show white round spots on a red-violet background, while adults of 9-18 cm are grey to dark violet with reddish-yellow to brown-red blotches, so the pattern changes with age.
Taxonomy
- Family: Mochokidae
- Genus: Synodontis
- Scientific name: Synodontis angelicus
Habitat
The species is native to the Congo Basin in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Republic of the Congo, and was originally discovered in the Malebo Pool of the Congo River.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 500 L
- Temperature: 23-28 °C (record); Wikipedia cites 24-28 °C
- pH: 6-7.5 (record); Wikipedia cites 6.0-8.0
- GH: 4-15 °dGH (record); Wikipedia cites 5-19 dGH
- Maximum size: up to 55 cm; typically about 25 cm
- Lifespan: 15-25 years
Diet
Synodontis angelicus is an omnivore that consumes smaller live foods and prepared foods. It will excavate substrate and may nibble plants.
Compatibility
It is nocturnal and somewhat territorial toward conspecifics but generally peaceful with other species. The record lists large cichlids, large catfish and bichirs as suitable companions, while small fish and additional S. angelicus are best avoided.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern.