Species profile
Synodontis Angelicus
Synodontis angelicus
Semi aggressive
Moderate care
400 L minimum aquarium
25–30 cm adult size
Bottom
Can be kept singly
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Large, long-lived Congo Synodontis. The wild maximum reported by FishBase is substantially larger than typical aquarium adults.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
24–28 °C
pH
6–8
GH
5–20 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Low–moderate
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Can be kept singly
Tank zone
Bottom
Territory level
Moderate
Predation risk
Small fish
Bioload factor
3.5
Mostly nocturnal and cave-oriented. Can be territorial towards other large Synodontis; robust tankmates should be too large to swallow.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Caution
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
No / caution
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
Yes
Jump risk
Low
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
400 L
Minimum footprint
150 × 50 cm
Accepted scientific name
Synodontis angelicus
Alternative names
Synodontis Angelicus, Polka Dot Catfish, Angel Squeaker, Synodontis angelica
Native range
Congo River basin in the Republic of the Congo and Democratic Republic of the Congo, with records extending into adjacent Cameroon drainage.
Natural habitat
Large tropical river habitat. Provide substantial caves/wood, shaded retreats, smooth substrate and strong filtration with good oxygenation.
Diet & feeding
Opportunistic omnivore. Feed quality sinking catfish foods, frozen/live invertebrate foods and some vegetable matter; do not rely on scavenging leftovers.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Reliable external sexing is difficult; mature females are generally fuller-bodied, but vent/genital examination is more dependable.
Breeding
Oviparous, but dependable home-aquarium breeding is uncommon and should not be presented as routine.