Granulosus Synodontis Care Guide
Synodontis granulosus is a finely speckled catfish endemic to Lake Tanganyika, requiring hard alkaline water and robust tankmates.
Overview
Synodontis granulosus is an upside-down catfish of the family Mochokidae, endemic to Lake Tanganyika and recorded from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Burundi, Zambia and Tanzania. Standard length reaches about 21.6 cm, total length about 27 cm. The species name derives from the Latin granulum (grain), a reference to the granular papillae on the skin.
Taxonomy
- Family: Mochokidae
- Genus: Synodontis
- Scientific name: Synodontis granulosus
- Describer: Boulenger, 1900
Habitat
The species inhabits littoral to benthic zones of Lake Tanganyika over shell, sand and mud substrates, recorded to depths of about 130 m but typically between 20 and 40 m. Tanganyika water is hard and alkaline, with FishBase listing a temperature range of 22–26 °C.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 400 L
- Temperature: 24–27 °C
- pH: 7.8–9
- GH: 10–20 °dGH
- Adult size: 20–25 cm
- Lifespan: 8–15 years
Diet
Synodontis granulosus is omnivorous, with a trophic level near 2.9. The genus feeds on insect larvae, algae, gastropods, bivalves, sponges, crustaceans and fish eggs. A varied prepared and frozen diet suits aquarium specimens, offered once daily.
Compatibility
A bottom-oriented, nocturnal catfish that becomes semi-aggressive once mature. It is best kept with sturdy rift-lake cichlids rather than small, delicate fishes. Caves and subdued lighting support its natural behaviour.
Breeding
The species is oviparous with distinct pairing during breeding; spawning in the genus is associated with the July–October flooding period. Aquarium reproduction is rarely documented.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern, assessed 23 February 2025.