Species profile
Upside-Down Catfish
Synodontis nigriventris
Peaceful
Easy care
100 L minimum aquarium
7–9.6 cm adult size
Bottom–mid
Minimum group: 5
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Small Congo-basin Synodontis adapted to swimming and resting upside-down. Best kept socially with shaded cover and varied feeding.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
22–28 °C
pH
6–8
GH
5–12 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Low–moderate
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Minimum group: 5
Tank zone
Bottom–mid
Territory level
Low
Predation risk
Tiny fry
Bioload factor
1.5
Peaceful, mainly nocturnal and notably social for a Synodontis. Keep at least five where space permits; provide wood, caves and overhangs.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
No
Jump risk
Low
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
100 L
Minimum footprint
80 × 35 cm
Accepted scientific name
Synodontis nigriventris
Alternative names
Blotched Upside-down Catfish, Upside-down Catfish
Native range
Middle Congo River basin in Central Africa.
Natural habitat
Freshwater river and tributary habitats. In aquaria provide dim or diffused light, caves, wood and shaded undersides where the fish can rest inverted.
Diet & feeding
Nocturnal omnivore feeding on insects, crustaceans and plant matter; use sinking catfish foods plus varied frozen foods and some vegetable content.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Mature females are generally fuller-bodied and paler than males.
Breeding
Oviparous. FishBase records the species as an egg-layer, but routine home-aquarium reproduction is uncommon and should not be tagged as a cave breeder without stronger evidence.