Dwarf Lake Synodontis

Synodontis petricola

Spotted body, white dorsal leading edge and a preference for cover.

An irregularly spotted grey-brown body carries finer head spots. The dorsal leading spine is usually white, with pale edges around dark fins.

Adult length: Up to 10.2 cm
Water temperature: 24–28 °C
Lifespan: 10–15 years
pH: 7.5–8.5
Hardness: 10–35 dGH

Natural habitat: Inhabits Lake Tanganyika, to which it is endemic.

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Appearance and identification

S. multipunctatus usually has a darker dorsal leading spine and a larger eye. S. lucipinnis is part of this species; fin patches and spotting do not make it separate.

Aquarium environment

Keep rock crevices and lower routes open. Choose plants for alkaline water and shade.

Diet and feeding

Offer complete sinking foods with suitable frozen foods; bottom-dwelling does not mean living on leftovers.

Same-species behaviour

Maintain stable alkaline water, multiple rock shelters and open routes. Keep at least four with a 90 × 30 cm footprint; individual size, cover and maintenance still matter.

Compatibility limits

Very small fish may be eaten.

Sources

www.seriouslyfish.com ↗ 2026-10-22

www.scotcat.com ↗ 2026-10-22

doi.org ↗ 2026-10-22

api.gbif.org ↗ 2026-10-22