Dwarf synodontis

The dwarf synodontis is a small catfish of the family Mochokidae, endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. It has a stocky brownish body covered in dark spots, with a pale belly and the long branched barbels typical of the genus, used to detect food. It is a relatively peaceful, social catfish that does best in small groups, foraging near the bottom especially in the evening. It coexists well with Tanganyikan cichlids and other robust community fish of similar temperament. A tank with rocky caves, moderate hardness, and stable alkaline water suited to Rift Lake conditions works well. It is an unfussy feeder taking sinking pellets, frozen foods, and leftovers. Like several Tanganyikan Synodontis, it may act as a brood parasite of mouthbrooding cichlids, though deliberate breeding in aquaria is uncommon.