Catfish Synodontis Ocellifer
$20.00
Out of stock
| Care Level | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Diet | Omnivorous (flake, freeze dried, pellet, frozen, vegetables, live foods) |
| Water Conditions | Temperature: 72-78°F, pH: 7.8-8.6, Stable Parameters are key. |
| Max Size | reaches an aquarium size of 6 to 8 inches, though wild specimens can grow up to 19.3 inches |
| Scientific Name | Synodontis ocellifer |
| Species / Family | Mochokidae |
| Minimum Tank Size | 50 gallons or larger |
| Compatibility | Good tank mates for the Synodontis ocellifer (Ocellifer or Retro-fin Catfish) include robust, active mid-to-top-water fish and medium-to-large community species that are too large to be eaten. such as: Alestiid Tetras: Larger African tetras that share similar geographic regions and can handle active, spacious tanks like Congo Tetra, Cherry Red Congo Tetra, African Red-Eyed Tetra, Yellowtail Congo Tetra, and Blue Diamond Characin. Robust Cichlids: West African cichlids or Rift Lake cichlids (such as certain Mbuna or Peacock cichlids) that match their water parameters and temperaments. Barbs and Larger Rasboras: Active schooling fish like larger barbs that occupy the upper or middle water columns. Mormyrids (Elephantnose fish), Knifefish, and Gouramis: Compatible peaceful-to-semi-aggressive mid/bottom species that do not fit into the catfish's mouth. |
| Avoid Housing With | Do not house them with tiny fish (like neon tetras, guppies, or small fry), as Synodontis ocellifer will view them as food. Watch for Con-specific Aggression: They can become slightly territorial as they mature, especially toward other Synodontis catfish, though they can be kept in a small group if each fish has its own cave, bogwood, or PVC refuge. Because of their adult size, they require a spacious aquarium (at least a 4-foot-long tank for juveniles/adults) with a soft sandy substrate to protect their long barbels. |
Description
Catfish Synodontis Ocellifer 3″
The Synodontis ocellifer catfish (Ocellated Synodontis or Ocellifer Catfish) is a hardy, nocturnal freshwater bottom-dweller native to West and Central African river basins. They need soft, fine sand or smooth gravel to protect their barbels and belly, paired with plenty of driftwood, rocks, and caves to serve as day-time hiding spots. Subdued lighting; blue “moon-glow” lights are helpful for viewing them during their active hours at dusk and night. Well-oxygenated water with a moderate current and good filtration to handle waste. Cover heaters with guards to prevent burns.
Generally peaceful bottom-dweller, though territorial aggression can increase slightly with age. They can make squeaking sounds when distressed. Avoid very small fish (under 2 inches) or slow-moving tiny species, as they may be treated as food. Omnivorous. Accepts sinking catfish pellets, frozen meaty foods, flakes, and occasional vegetables; monitor portions as they are prone to bloating. Use caution when netting due to their serrated pectoral fin spines. Live up to 10 to 20 years with proper care.
Additional information
| Weight | 2 lbs |
|---|
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