Albert's Synodontis - Synodontis alberti

Catfish / Mochocidae / Albert's Synodontis

Profile: High-fin Synodontis, Albert's Synodontis
Synodontis alberti
Synonyms: None
Physical description: The High-fin Synodontis has a deep, stocky body. It has three pairs of barbels on its mouth. The body is gray to brown in color and covered in small dark spots. The fins also have spots. The dorsal stands is elongated and grows longer with age, as does the tail.
Size/Length: To 6.5" (16 cm)
Similar species: Feather-fin Synodontis (Synodontis eupterus), Spotfin Synodontis (Synodontis robbianus), Large-blotched Synodontis (Synodontis robertsi)
Habitat: Western Africa; Stanley Pool of the Zaire (Congo) River in Zaire.
S: bottom
Aquarium: A 32" (81 cm) or 30 gallon (114 l) tank is sufficient, although larger tanks are preferred. The tank should be well-planted with a cover of floating plants to mute the lighting. Provide hiding places with rocks, caves, roots, and wood. Leave an open-swimming area. The substrate should be fine gravel or sand.
Water chemistry: pH 6.9-8.5 (7.8), 12-30 dH (20), 77-82°F (25-28°C)
Social behavior: A peaceful fish, recommended for a community tank. Does well with any sized companions over 2" (5 cm).
Suggested companions: Mormyrids, Congo Tetras, West African cichlids, Gouramis, larger barbs.
FOOD: Live; Tubifex, insect larvae, aquatic insects, crustaceans, earthworms; pellets; tablets; large flakes; algae
Sexual differences: The body color of adult females fades to grayish brown. Males keep the spotted pattern.
Breeding techniques: Unsuccessful.
Breeding potential: 10. This Synodontis has not been bred in captivity.
Remarks: This fish has the longest barbels of all of the Synodontis species. A diurnal fish.
Difficulty of care: 2. A hardy catfish, whose diet should be occasionally supplemented with live foods.