Angelicus Synodontis

Synodontis angelicus

Animalia›Chordata›Actinopterygii

📍 West Africa (Congo Basin)

A striking African catfish from the Congo River basin, known for its deep black body covered in bright white or yellow polka dots that fade somewhat with age. It is nocturnal, semi-aggressive toward conspecifics, and best suited to a 55+ gallon tank with plenty of caves and hiding spots.

Size10"

Min Tank55g

semi-aggressive

Zonebottom

Care Guide

Diet

Angelicus Synodontis are primarily carnivorous and nocturnal feeders that prefer sinking pellets, frozen foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp, and occasional live foods. Feed 2-3 times weekly in the evening or night when they are most active, providing only what they can consume in a few minutes to avoid water quality issues.

Behavior

This species is nocturnal and relatively inactive during the day, spending most daylight hours hidden in caves or under decorations. They are semi-aggressive toward conspecifics and may become territorial, particularly at night; they are generally peaceful toward other fish species but may prey on very small fish or shrimp. They produce audible squeaking or grunting sounds, especially when stressed or during feeding.

Breeding

Breeding Angelicus Synodontis in captivity is difficult and rarely achieved in home aquariums. They are cave spawners that require very specific conditions including low light, stable water parameters, and multiple hiding spots; little is known about their breeding behavior in captivity, and fry rearing has been documented only occasionally.

Tank Mates

Bristlenose Pleco

Similar nocturnal habits and bottom-dwelling behavior; both prefer caves and low light

good

Congo Tetra

Mid-water swimmer from similar African habitat; large enough to avoid predation

good

Kuhli Loach

Both nocturnal bottom-dwellers; may compete for cave space but generally compatible

caution

Rummy Nose Tetra

Peaceful schooling fish that occupy mid-water column and won't compete for bottom territory

good

Common Diseases

Ich (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis)

Symptoms

White spots on body and fins, rapid breathing, lethargy, rubbing against objects

Treatment

Raise temperature gradually to 28-30°C, perform water changes, use ich medication; ensure adequate aeration as catfish are sensitive to low oxygen

Fin Rot

Symptoms

Frayed or deteriorating fins, discoloration at fin edges, lethargy

Treatment

Improve water quality with frequent partial water changes, reduce stress by providing more hiding spots, use antibacterial medication if severe

Bacterial Infection

Symptoms

Open sores, cloudy eyes, loss of appetite, fin damage, behavioral changes

Treatment

Perform large water changes, maintain optimal water parameters, use broad-spectrum antibiotic medication; isolate if possible to prevent spread

Parasitic Infection

Symptoms

Excessive scratching, weight loss, visible parasites, clamped fins, lethargy

Treatment

Use antiparasitic medication appropriate for catfish, perform water changes, quarantine affected fish; avoid copper-based treatments which catfish are sensitive to