Feather-fin Catfish | Synodontis eupterus

Catfish / Mochocidae / Feather-fin Catfish

Profile: Feather-fin Catfish
Synodontis eupterus
Synonyms: None
Physical description: The Feather-fin Catfish has a deep, stocky body. It has three pairs of barbels on its mouth. The body is light brown to dark gray in color and covered in small dark spots. The fins also have spots and the tail is striped. The dorsal stands tall.
Size/Length: To 6" (15 cm)
Similar species: High-fin Synodontis (Synodontis alberti), Spotfin Synodontis (Synodontis robbianus), Large-blotched Synodontis (Synodontis robertsi)
Habitat: Central Africa; White Nile (Sudan) and the tributaries of Lake Chad (Chari and Yobe Rivers) in Niger and Chad.
S: bottom
Aquarium: 32" (80 cm) or 30 gallons (114 L). The tank lighting should be muted by a cover of floating plants. Thickets of plants and other hiding places are needed, as are open swimming areas. Use a fine gravel bottom. Water chemistry: pH 6.5-7.5 (7.0), 8-20 dH (14), 72-81°F (22-27°C)
Social behavior: A peaceful fish, recommended for a community tank. Does well with any sized companions.
Suggested companions: Mormyrids, Congo Tetras, West African cichlids, Gouramis, larger barbs, Haplochromis, Butterfly fish
FOOD: Live; Tubifex, insect larvae, crustaceans, earthworms, aquatic and terrestrial insects; tablets.
Sexual differences: Unknown
Breeding techniques: Unsuccessful in aquaria, although successful in Florida fish farm ponds using hormone injections.
Breeding potential: 10. This species has yet to spawn in aquaria.
Remarks: This fish is sometimes sold as S. ornatus.
Difficulty of care: 3. A hardy catfish whose diet should include live foods.