{"product_id":"petricola-catfish-synodontis-petricola","title":"Petricola Catfish - Synodontis petricola","description":"\u003ch1 data-section-id=\"aa7pxz\" data-start=\"513\" data-end=\"557\"\u003e\u003cspan role=\"text\"\u003ePetricola Catfish – \u003cem data-start=\"535\" data-end=\"557\"\u003eSynodontis petricola\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"77mjg\" data-start=\"559\" data-end=\"571\"\u003eOverview:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"572\" data-end=\"1130\"\u003eThe \u003cstrong data-start=\"576\" data-end=\"597\"\u003ePetricola Catfish\u003c\/strong\u003e is a beautifully marked Lake Tanganyika catfish with a dark spotted body, pale-edged fins and the lively, upside-down-style swimming behaviour typical of many \u003cem data-start=\"757\" data-end=\"769\"\u003eSynodontis\u003c\/em\u003e. Also known as the \u003cstrong data-start=\"789\" data-end=\"807\"\u003eCuckoo Catfish\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong data-start=\"809\" data-end=\"841\"\u003eDwarf Tanganyikan Synodontis\u003c\/strong\u003e or \u003cstrong data-start=\"845\" data-end=\"869\"\u003ePetricola Synodontis\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cem data-start=\"871\" data-end=\"893\"\u003eSynodontis petricola\u003c\/em\u003e is a superb choice for hard-water African cichlid aquariums and specialist Tanganyikan communities. It is peaceful with suitable tank mates, but it is active, nocturnal and best kept in a group with plenty of rockwork and hiding places.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"18rclky\" data-start=\"1132\" data-end=\"1154\"\u003eKey Identification:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1155\" data-end=\"1454\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1155\" data-end=\"1171\"\u003eCommon Name:\u003c\/strong\u003e Petricola Catfish\u003cbr data-start=\"1189\" data-end=\"1192\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1192\" data-end=\"1208\"\u003eOther Names:\u003c\/strong\u003e Cuckoo Catfish, Dwarf Petricola Catfish, Dwarf Tanganyikan Synodontis, Petricola Synodontis, False Cuckoo Catfish\u003cbr data-start=\"1322\" data-end=\"1325\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1325\" data-end=\"1345\"\u003eScientific Name:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cem data-start=\"1346\" data-end=\"1368\"\u003eSynodontis petricola\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1368\" data-end=\"1371\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1371\" data-end=\"1385\"\u003eFish Type:\u003c\/strong\u003e Synodontis Catfish \/ Squeaker Catfish\u003cbr data-start=\"1423\" data-end=\"1426\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1426\" data-end=\"1441\"\u003eWater Type:\u003c\/strong\u003e Freshwater\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"13oemwk\" data-start=\"1456\" data-end=\"1483\"\u003eNatural Range \u0026amp; Habitat:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1484\" data-end=\"1688\"\u003eThe Petricola Catfish is native to \u003cstrong data-start=\"1519\" data-end=\"1538\"\u003eLake Tanganyika\u003c\/strong\u003e in East Africa. FishBase records \u003cem data-start=\"1572\" data-end=\"1594\"\u003eSynodontis petricola\u003c\/em\u003e from the lake and notes that it is found among rocks. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1690\" data-end=\"2057\"\u003eIn nature, this means the fish is associated with rocky shorelines, crevices and hard, alkaline water. In the aquarium, it should be provided with piles of smooth rock, caves, shaded retreats and open areas for swimming. Seriously Fish recommends a Lake Tanganyika-style setup with rock piles forming caves, plus some open water. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"1k4fj4a\" data-start=\"2059\" data-end=\"2086\"\u003eAppearance \u0026amp; Adult Size:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2087\" data-end=\"2410\"\u003ePetricola Catfish have a compact, slightly arched body with a dark base colour covered in pale spots. The fins are especially attractive, usually showing dark centres with bright white edging, particularly on the dorsal, caudal and pectoral fins. The long barbels are used to search through rockwork and substrate for food.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2412\" data-end=\"2721\"\u003eAdults usually reach around \u003cstrong data-start=\"2440\" data-end=\"2452\"\u003e10–12 cm\u003c\/strong\u003e, although some aquarium sources list larger sizes up to around \u003cstrong data-start=\"2516\" data-end=\"2528\"\u003e14–15 cm\u003c\/strong\u003e. FishBase gives a maximum size of \u003cstrong data-start=\"2563\" data-end=\"2577\"\u003e10.2 cm TL\u003c\/strong\u003e, while Fishkeeper lists a maximum of \u003cstrong data-start=\"2615\" data-end=\"2626\"\u003e14.5 cm\u003c\/strong\u003e. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e Females are often fuller-bodied than males when mature.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"zee6g1\" data-start=\"2723\" data-end=\"2747\"\u003eAquarium Suitability:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2748\" data-end=\"3156\"\u003eThis species is ideal for a mature \u003cstrong data-start=\"2783\" data-end=\"2819\"\u003eLake Tanganyika cichlid aquarium\u003c\/strong\u003e, hard-water community or specialist African setup. It is not suitable for soft acidic aquariums, small nano tanks or delicate slow-moving communities. Rockwork should be secure and arranged to create multiple caves and crevices, as these catfish like to shelter during the day and become more active at feeding time or after lights dim.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"1jzuw08\" data-start=\"3158\" data-end=\"3187\"\u003eRecommended Aquarium Size:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3188\" data-end=\"3514\"\u003eA practical minimum is \u003cstrong data-start=\"3211\" data-end=\"3243\"\u003e120 litres for a small group\u003c\/strong\u003e, with \u003cstrong data-start=\"3250\" data-end=\"3272\"\u003e180 litres or more\u003c\/strong\u003e preferred for Tanganyikan community aquariums or larger groups. A tank length of at least \u003cstrong data-start=\"3363\" data-end=\"3372\"\u003e90 cm\u003c\/strong\u003e is recommended, especially when keeping them with cichlids. Provide more caves than catfish so individuals can choose their own hiding spots.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"pl4gsq\" data-start=\"3516\" data-end=\"3536\"\u003eWater Conditions:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3537\" data-end=\"3981\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"3537\" data-end=\"3553\"\u003eTemperature:\u003c\/strong\u003e 24–26°C\u003cbr data-start=\"3561\" data-end=\"3564\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"3564\" data-end=\"3571\"\u003epH:\u003c\/strong\u003e 7.8–8.8\u003cbr data-start=\"3579\" data-end=\"3582\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"3582\" data-end=\"3595\"\u003eHardness:\u003c\/strong\u003e Hard to very hard preferred\u003cbr data-start=\"3623\" data-end=\"3626\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"3626\" data-end=\"3647\"\u003eAdditional Notes:\u003c\/strong\u003e Hard, alkaline water is essential for long-term care. FishBase lists \u003cem data-start=\"3717\" data-end=\"3731\"\u003eS. petricola\u003c\/em\u003e at pH \u003cstrong data-start=\"3738\" data-end=\"3749\"\u003e8.0–9.0\u003c\/strong\u003e, hardness \u003cstrong data-start=\"3760\" data-end=\"3771\"\u003e9–19 dH\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong data-start=\"3776\" data-end=\"3787\"\u003e22–25°C\u003c\/strong\u003e, while Fishkeeper recommends pH \u003cstrong data-start=\"3820\" data-end=\"3831\"\u003e7.8–8.8\u003c\/strong\u003e, hardness \u003cstrong data-start=\"3842\" data-end=\"3854\"\u003e15–25 dH\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong data-start=\"3859\" data-end=\"3870\"\u003e24–26°C\u003c\/strong\u003e. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e Maintain strong filtration, high oxygenation and regular water changes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"3rlnm7\" data-start=\"3983\" data-end=\"4011\"\u003eTemperament \u0026amp; Tank Mates:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4012\" data-end=\"4051\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"4012\" data-end=\"4034\"\u003eAquarium Category:\u003c\/strong\u003e Community Fish\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4053\" data-end=\"4400\"\u003ePetricola Catfish are generally peaceful, but they are active, opportunistic catfish and should be kept with fish that suit hard, alkaline water. Suitable tank mates include Tanganyikan cichlids such as \u003cem data-start=\"4256\" data-end=\"4272\"\u003eNeolamprologus\u003c\/em\u003e, \u003cem data-start=\"4274\" data-end=\"4289\"\u003eJulidochromis\u003c\/em\u003e, \u003cem data-start=\"4291\" data-end=\"4308\"\u003eAltolamprologus\u003c\/em\u003e and shell-dwellers in suitably arranged aquariums, as well as other robust hard-water fish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4402\" data-end=\"4678\"\u003eAvoid soft-water tetras, delicate Cory-type catfish, tiny fish, shrimp and slow fish that may be stressed or outcompeted. Very small fry may be eaten. They are best kept in a group of \u003cstrong data-start=\"4586\" data-end=\"4602\"\u003eat least 3–5\u003c\/strong\u003e, with larger groups often showing more natural activity where space allows.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"1ah6yd9\" data-start=\"4680\" data-end=\"4691\"\u003eFeeding:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4692\" data-end=\"5051\"\u003ePetricola Catfish are omnivorous and feed readily once settled. Offer quality sinking catfish pellets, small carnivore pellets, spirulina-based tablets and bottom-feeder foods as the staple. Supplement with frozen or live foods such as brineshrimp, daphnia, bloodworm, mysis, cyclops and chopped prawn. Include some vegetable or algae-based foods for balance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"5053\" data-end=\"5144\"\u003eFeed after lights dim if cichlids are taking most of the food before it reaches the bottom.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"2vr35r\" data-start=\"5146\" data-end=\"5175\"\u003eBehaviour in the Aquarium:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"5176\" data-end=\"5656\"\u003eThis is an active rock-dwelling catfish that often rests in caves by day and emerges strongly at feeding time. It may swim upside down or at unusual angles while exploring rockwork, which is normal for \u003cem data-start=\"5378\" data-end=\"5390\"\u003eSynodontis\u003c\/em\u003e. Groups can be very entertaining, chasing, displaying and weaving through caves. Tropical Fish Hobbyist describes \u003cem data-start=\"5505\" data-end=\"5519\"\u003eS. petricola\u003c\/em\u003e as active and interesting, often hiding at times but also chasing and displaying with one another. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"gyou4p\" data-start=\"5658\" data-end=\"5672\"\u003eCare Notes:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"5673\" data-end=\"6183\"\u003eKeep in hard, alkaline water and avoid soft acidic community conditions. Provide secure rockwork with many caves, but make sure stones cannot collapse if the catfish dig underneath. Do not keep singly where possible, as groups are more confident and natural. Maintain excellent water quality, as Lake Tanganyika fish dislike unstable or dirty conditions. Be aware that many fish sold as “Petricola” may actually be \u003cem data-start=\"6088\" data-end=\"6111\"\u003eSynodontis lucipinnis\u003c\/em\u003e, so supplier identification and realistic adult size should be checked.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"iot6fl\" data-start=\"6185\" data-end=\"6204\"\u003eRecommended For:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"6205\" data-end=\"6229\"\u003eBeginner to intermediate\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"1c7763y\" data-start=\"6231\" data-end=\"6247\"\u003eAvailability:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"6248\" data-end=\"6315\"\u003eCommon to occasional \/ Captive-bred or imported Tanganyikan catfish\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"1x39ni3\" data-start=\"6317\" data-end=\"6337\"\u003eImage Disclaimer:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"6338\" data-end=\"6533\"\u003eAll images are a visual representation of the fish you will receive, made to be as accurate as possible. Natural variation in size, colour, pattern and markings can occur between individual fish.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Warehouse Aquatics","offers":[{"title":"Small","offer_id":43680174440522,"sku":"AG-102776","price":12.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Medium","offer_id":43680174473290,"sku":"AG-102777","price":14.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Large","offer_id":43680174506058,"sku":"AG-102778","price":19.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"X-Large","offer_id":43680174538826,"sku":"AG-102779","price":24.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0623\/1877\/2298\/files\/PetricolaCatfish-Synodontispetricola.jpg?v=1780933688","url":"https:\/\/warehouse-aquatics.co.uk\/products\/petricola-catfish-synodontis-petricola","provider":"Warehouse Aquatics","version":"1.0","type":"link"}