Zambezi Synodontis Care Guide
Synodontis zambezensis is a southern African squeaker from the Zambezi that shelters upside-down and tolerates a wide temperature range.
Overview
Synodontis zambezensis, the plain squeaker, is an upside-down catfish of the middle and lower Zambezi system, recorded across Mozambique, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Eswatini. Standard length reaches about 43 cm and maximum published weight about 820 g. The species name is derived from the Zambezi River.
Taxonomy
- Family: Mochokidae
- Genus: Synodontis
- Scientific name: Synodontis zambezensis
- Describer: Peters, 1852
Habitat
The species occupies pools and slow-flowing reaches of perennial and seasonal rivers, where it frequently shelters upside-down in holes, crevices or under logs. FishBase classifies it as freshwater and benthopelagic across a wide tropical latitude range.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 400 L
- Temperature: 22–28 °C
- pH: 7–8
- GH: 8–20 °dGH
- Adult size: 25–30 cm
- Lifespan: 8–15 years
Diet
Synodontis zambezensis is an omnivorous nocturnal feeder, with a trophic level near 2.7. It consumes detritus and plant matter such as seeds, together with small invertebrates including insects and snails. A varied prepared and frozen diet suits the aquarium, offered once daily.
Compatibility
A peaceful, nocturnal, bottom-dwelling catfish that tolerates harder water than many congeners. It is kept with robust tankmates and given caves and dim lighting. Small tetras are unsuitable companions.
Breeding
The species is oviparous with distinct pairing during breeding, spawning during summer rainy periods. Aquarium breeding is rarely reported.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern, assessed 2 October 2017.