Species profile
Synodontis Petricola
Synodontis petricola
Peaceful
Easy care
140 L minimum aquarium
8–12 cm adult size
Bottom
Minimum group: 5
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
2024 revision recognises Synodontis lucipinnis as a junior synonym of S. petricola; phenotype variation remains substantial.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
22–27 °C
pH
7.5–9
GH
9–25 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Moderate
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Minimum group: 5
Tank zone
Bottom
Territory level
Low
Predation risk
Tiny fish
Bioload factor
2
Gregarious Tanganyikan catfish; keep five or more.
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
Yes
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
140 L
Minimum footprint
90 × 40 cm
Accepted scientific name
Synodontis petricola
Alternative names
Petricola Catfish, Dwarf Petricola phenotype, Synodontis lucipinnis (junior synonym)
Native range
Lake Tanganyika, East Africa.
Natural habitat
Rocky littoral habitat. Use sand, abundant rock caves, hard alkaline water, strong oxygenation and moderate current.
Diet & feeding
Sinking catfish foods, frozen invertebrates and some vegetable/algal foods; avoid chronic overfeeding.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Mature females are fuller-bodied; experienced keepers may vent adults using genital papillae.
Breeding
Substrate/crevice egg scatterer with no prolonged parental care; aquarium spawning often occurs in dark cavities or pebble/marble traps.