All fish / Mochokidae

Polka Dot Synodontis

Synodontis angelicus

Also known as angel squeaker, polka dot squeaker, angelicus catfish, polkadot synodontis, angel synodontis, synodontis angelicus, angelicus squeaker, シノドンティス・アンジェリカス, 珍珠豹鼠, 天使鼠鱼

This is a striking upside-down catfish relative. Young fish are dark purple to black with bold white or cream spots, and they have banded fins and three pairs of barbels. It is one of the most sought-after Synodontis because of its contrasting colours. It is long-lived and mostly active at night.

Care at a glance

Care level

Moderate

Temperament

Semi

Adult size

20 cm

Temperature

22 to 27 °C

pH

6.5 to 7.5

Smallest tank

300 litres

Keep as

Singly or in a group of 3 or more in a large tank

Diet

Omnivore: sinking pellets, catfish wafers, frozen bloodworm, brine shrimp and some vegetable matter

Swims

Bottom of the tank

Lifespan

10 to 15 years

Water

Freshwater

Wild range

Congo River basin (DR Congo, Republic of Congo, Cameroon, Central African Republic)

Breeding

There are very few reports of captive breeding, and most fish in the trade are wild-caught. Breeding in home aquariums is effectively unknown.

Good to know

Adults reach about 20 cm and can become territorial with other bottom dwellers, and they will eat very small fish. Prices are high, so watch for cheaper spotted Synodontis being sold under this name. The spots fade and grow smaller with age.