Upside-Down Catfish

Synodontis nigriventris

A peaceful catfish that habitually swims belly-up to feed at the surface.

Water

Freshwater

Temperature

72–79°F

pH

6–7.5

Hardness

4–15 dGH

Max size

4 in

Min tank

30 gal

Temperament

Peaceful

Social

Social (3+)

Swim level

Bottom

Diet

Omnivore

Care level

Beginner

Lifespan

8-10 years

Breeding

Egg-layer

Suitability

Common

Origin

Africa (Congo basin)

Famous for its inverted swimming, an adaptation for grazing the underside of the surface and submerged wood. Peaceful and social, best in a small group with caves to shelter in by day. A great oddball for soft-water communities.