Koe's Synodontis

Synodontis koensis originates from the lower Niger River drainage in West Africa, a region of diverse aquatic habitats ranging from slow muddy backwaters to rocky river margins. It is a compact, well-proportioned catfish with an attractive spotted-to-marbled pattern on a pale background that provides good camouflage in natural settings.

In the aquarium it proves adaptable and straightforward to keep, tolerating a wide range of water conditions from soft acidic to moderately hard near-neutral. It is primarily nocturnal but frequently emerges during morning and evening feeding periods, becoming increasingly bold in established aquariums.

A practical and attractive choice for West African community tanks alongside Niger-region tetras, cichlids and larger characins.

Water: 22–27°C, pH 6.5–7.5, soft to moderately hard (GH 5–15, KH 2–10). Tank: 180 L minimum; rocks and driftwood caves; sandy substrate; moderate flow. Feeding: Sinking pellets, catfish wafers, frozen bloodworm and brine shrimp; accepts commercial foods well. Breeding: Cave spawner; not documented in home aquariums. Compatibility: Peaceful with medium community fish; good with Niger-region tetras and cichlids.