Fishician®Diet
Omnivore – sinking pellets, frozen bloodworms, shrimp, algae wafers; scavenger
Aquarium species profile
Featherfin Catfish
Synodontis eupterus · Africa (West & Central Africa — Niger, Volta, Nile river basins)
Minimum tank55 gal
Adult size8"
Care levelEasy
TemperamentPeaceful
Temperature72–82°F
pH range6.5–8.0
Compatible tank mates
Large cichlids, large community fish, other Synodontis; avoids conflict
Tank mates to avoid
Very small fish (may eat), aggressive fish that nip fins
Care notes
Spectacular elongated dorsal fin like a feather. Polka-dot spotted pattern on grey/brown body. Swims upside down regularly (normal for Synodontis). Nocturnal but becomes active during feeding. Hardy and adaptable — one of the easiest large African catfish. Long-lived. Popular in cichlid tanks as a scavenger.
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.