[Ebook] 500 freshwater aquarium fish – Catfish – Featherfin Synodontis (Synodontis eupterus)

As its common name suggests, this species develops a dorsal-fin extension. When raised and with all its filaments extended, it looks like a moving fan. This, together with its numerous small, dark body spots, make it a much sought-after Synodontis species. There is a marked difference in patterning between Featherfin juveniles and adults. Juvenile Featherfins have a “zebra” appearance, with lines of black and white and irregular spots. As they mature, they develop a duller gray-brownish color, while keeping the lined appearance at the tail.

Family

• Mochokidae

Distribution

• Widely distributed from west Africa to the White Nile.

Size

• Around 6in (15cm).

Behavior

• Peaceful, even toward smaller tankmates. Swims upside-down only occasionally.

Diet

• Livefoods are preferred, but some commercial formulations also accepted.

Aquarium

• Spacious, well planted, with adequate shelter, fine-grained substratum, and subdued lighting. A “moonlight” fluorescent tube will make nighttime activity of the species easily observable. Soft to moderately hard, slightly acid to slightly alkaline water preferred. Temperature range: 72-79F (22-26 -C).

Breeding

• No documented accounts currently available.