Lake Malawi Squeaker

Synodontis njassae is one of very few Synodontis species endemic to Lake Malawi, and as such shares the highly alkaline, hard-water preferences of the mbuna and haplochromine cichlids with which it coexists in nature. It is a medium-sized, robustly built catfish that spends its days sheltering among rocky piles and becomes more active after lights-out.

In the aquarium it adapts well to standard Malawi cichlid husbandry, tolerating the high pH and GH values that would stress many other Synodontis species. It is broadly peaceful toward cichlids but may compete with other bottom-dwelling species for prime cave territories.

Feed a varied diet including high-quality sinking pellets with a modest plant component to reflect the aufwuchs-based elements of its natural diet.