Synodontis nigrita Gold Bicolor – 7 to 9 cm

Synodontis nigrita Gold Bicolor

The Synodontis nigrita Gold Bicolor is a particularly distinctive form of this African catfish. Its pale golden to cream colouration, combined with darker areas, gives it a very different appearance from the usual colouration of the species.

Like other Synodontis, it spends much of its time close to the substrate and appreciates roots, rocks and other shelters where it can retreat.

The specimens offered here are approximately 7 to 9 cm.

Adult Size

Synodontis nigrita generally reaches approximately 12 to 15 cm in the aquarium.

Water Parameters

Temperature: 22 to 28 °C
pH: 6.5 to 8.5
Hardness: soft to hard water
Nitrite: 0 mg/L

Nitrite should remain undetectable. Efficient filtration and good water quality are recommended to keep this fish in suitable conditions.

What Size Aquarium for Synodontis nigrita?

An aquarium approximately 120 cm long and 200 litres or more provides a good basis for keeping this species.

Available floor space is particularly important. The aquarium can include roots, rocks and several hiding places while retaining enough open space for the fish to move around freely.

Behaviour

Synodontis nigrita is a catfish that spends most of its time close to the bottom. It can be kept alone or with other individuals when sufficient space and hiding places are available.

It can live alongside many suitably sized fish, although very small fish and small invertebrates may potentially be regarded as prey.

Feeding

Synodontis nigrita is omnivorous with a preference for animal-based foods. In the wild, its diet can include various aquatic organisms as well as other food resources available near the bottom.

In the aquarium, sinking pellets formulated for bottom-dwelling fish can form the basis of its diet. These can be supplemented with frozen or live foods as part of a varied diet.

Synodontis should not be regarded as a “cleaner fish”: it requires a complete and appropriate diet of its own.

Breeding

Synodontis nigrita is an egg-laying species. Breeding is rarely observed and documented in the home aquarium.

It should therefore not be routinely described as a cave-spawning species.

Origin

Synodontis nigrita originates from Africa, where the species occurs in several tropical African river systems.

Lifespan

Synodontis nigrita can live for many years. Under suitable aquarium conditions, its lifespan can reach approximately 10 to 15 years.

Never Release Aquarium Fish into the Wild

Synodontis nigrita must never be released into a river, pond, lake or any other natural environment.