Ocellifer Synodontis

Synodontis ocellifer

Animalia›Chordata›Actinopterygii

📍 West Africa

A medium-sized African catfish from the Senegal and Niger river basins, featuring a pale tan to grey body covered in small, distinct black spots and a characteristic upturned mouth for feeding on the underside of surfaces. It is nocturnal and peaceful with fish too large to eat, doing well in 40+ gallon tanks with good hiding spots.

Size8"

Min Tank40g

peaceful

Zonebottom

Care Guide

Diet

Ocellifer Synodontis are primarily nocturnal bottom feeders that consume sinking pellets, algae wafers, and frozen foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp. Feed small amounts 3-4 times per week in the evening, as they are less active during the day. Supplement with vegetable matter such as blanched zucchini or cucumber to support digestive health.

Behavior

This peaceful catfish is strictly nocturnal and spends most daylight hours hiding in caves, driftwood, or dense vegetation. They are solitary or found in small groups in the wild and remain relatively inactive during the day, becoming more active at night when they forage along the substrate. They produce audible squeaking or grunting sounds, especially when disturbed or during feeding.

Breeding

Breeding Ocellifer Synodontis in captivity is difficult and rarely achieved in home aquariums. They require very specific cave conditions, stable water parameters, and mature tanks with minimal disturbance. Successful spawning has been documented but is uncommon; fry are difficult to raise due to their small size and specific dietary needs.

Tank Mates

Otocinclus

Similar size, peaceful bottom feeders with compatible nocturnal/crepuscular habits

excellent

Neon Tetra

Small, peaceful mid-water swimmers that won't compete for bottom space or trigger predatory behavior

good

Harlequin Rasbora

Peaceful schooling fish that occupy different water zones and have similar water parameter needs

good

Ramshorn Snail

Peaceful invertebrates that share bottom habitat without competing for food or space

excellent

Common Diseases

Ich (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis)

Symptoms

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

Treatment

Raise temperature gradually to 28-30°C, perform frequent water changes, use ich medication if needed; ensure good water quality and hiding spots to reduce stress

Fin Rot

Symptoms

Frayed or deteriorating fins, discoloration at fin edges, fin loss

Treatment

Improve water quality through increased water changes, reduce stocking density, use antibacterial medication if severe; ensure adequate hiding places to minimize stress

Bacterial Infections

Symptoms

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

Treatment

Perform large water changes, maintain optimal water parameters, use broad-spectrum antibacterial treatment; quarantine if possible and ensure excellent tank hygiene