Striped Synodontis

Synodontis caudovittatus is distributed across the Nile River system and its tributaries, bearing a series of dark horizontal stripes along its pale flanks — an unusual pattern among Synodontis and one that makes it immediately distinguishable. It is one of the larger species in the genus and has been maintained in aquariums for well over a century.

In captivity it is tolerant of a wide range of water chemistry, from soft to moderately hard and slightly acidic to moderately alkaline, making it one of the most broadly adaptable Synodontis. It is primarily nocturnal but becomes bolder with age and in well-structured setups.

A good companion for large African cichlids, robust West African species and other large catfish, it occupies the bottom zone efficiently and performs useful scavenging.

Water: 22–28°C, pH 6.5–8.0, soft to moderately hard (GH 5–18, KH 2–12). Tank: 300 L minimum; large caves and rocky ledges; sandy substrate; moderate to strong flow. Feeding: Sinking pellets, prawn, earthworm, frozen bloodworm; hearty, unfussy eater. Breeding: Cave spawner; not commonly bred in captivity. Compatibility: Peaceful with large community fish and cichlids; avoid very small tankmates.