All fish / Mochokidae

Roberts' Synodontis

Synodontis robertsi

Also known as roberts synodontis, robert's squeaker, roberts squeaker, synodontis robertsi catfish

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A small to medium squeaker catfish from the Congo with a pale body covered in dark spots and three pairs of barbels, the lower ones feathered. It is kept by catfish enthusiasts for its attractive markings and relatively modest adult size compared with many Synodontis.

Care at a glance

Care level

Moderate

Temperament

Semi

Adult size

12 cm

Temperature

23 to 27 °C

pH

6 to 7.5

Smallest tank

150 litres

Keep as

Singly or in a group of 3 or more with plenty of hiding places

Diet

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

Swims

Bottom of the tank

Lifespan

10 to 15 years

Water

Freshwater

Wild range

Middle Congo River basin, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Breeding

Not known to have been bred regularly in home aquariums, and trade fish are usually wild caught. Related species are egg scatterers and some are bred commercially using hormones.

Good to know

Mostly nocturnal and can squabble with other bottom dwellers over caves, so give each fish its own shelter. Can be confused with other spotted Congo Synodontis such as S. decorus juveniles or S. angelicus, which grow larger.