Fishician®Diet
Omnivore – sinking pellets, frozen shrimp, bloodworms, snails, algae wafers; nocturnal
Aquarium species profile
Polka Dot Synodontis
Synodontis angelicus · Africa (Congo River basin — Democratic Republic of Congo)
Minimum tank55 gal
Adult size9"
Care levelModerate
TemperamentSemi-Aggressive
Temperature72–82°F
pH range6.0–8.0
Compatible tank mates
Large cichlids, large robust fish; may fight with other Synodontis
Tank mates to avoid
Very small fish, other Synodontis (territorial toward own kind)
Care notes
Bold white polka dots on dark body — one of the most striking Synodontis. Grows larger and more aggressive than most. Nocturnal and secretive; needs caves and dark areas. Can be territorial with conspecifics. Popular in large African cichlid tanks. Long-lived (15+ years). Juveniles more boldly spotted than adults.
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.