Fishician®Diet
Omnivore – sinking pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms, algae wafers; scavenger
Aquarium species profile
Dwarf Petricola Catfish
Synodontis lucipinnis · Africa (Lake Tanganyika)
Minimum tank30 gal
Adult size3.5"
Care levelEasy
TemperamentPeaceful
Temperature75–82°F
pH range7.5–9.0
Compatible tank mates
Tanganyika cichlids, other African catfish, shell dwellers; great community fish
Tank mates to avoid
Very tiny nano fish (may harass), aggressive large cichlids
Care notes
Often sold as S. petricola but is the smaller species. Stunning white dots on black body. Forms loose groups — keep 3+. One of the most suitable catfish for Tanganyika cichlid tanks. Swims upside down. Less aggressive than other Synodontis. Easy to keep and breed. Hardy and adaptable.
Check the whole aquarium. Tank size alone does not establish compatibility. Confirm adult size, water overlap, social grouping, territory, diet, and the individual animals before stocking.