Giant Upside Down Catfish - (Synodontis batensoda)

🐟 Giant Upside Down Catfish (Synodontis batensoda)

The Giant Upside Down Catfish is a fascinating African species known for its unique habit of swimming belly-up. It is one of the largest members of the Synodontis genus, admired for its distinctive behavior and adaptability in community tanks.

🔍 Quick Facts

• 🆔 Common Name: Giant Upside Down Catfish
• 🧬 Scientific Name: Synodontis batensoda
• 🧬 Family: Mochokidae
• 🌎 Origin: Africa — Nile, Chad, and other large river basins
• 📏 Max Size: Up to 16 inches (40 cm)

🕊️ Behavior & Temperament

• 🔄 Unique upside-down swimming behavior
• 🧘 Generally peaceful and social
• 🐟 Nocturnal bottom dweller but active during the day
• 🤝 Compatible with similarly sized, peaceful fish

🏡 Tank Requirements

• 🛁 Minimum Tank Size: 75 gallons or larger
• 🪨 Provide caves, driftwood, and hiding spots
• 💨 Moderate filtration with stable water parameters

Water Parameters:

• 🌡️ Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C)
• ⚗️ pH: 6.5–7.5
• 💧 Soft to moderately hard water

🍽️ Diet

• Omnivorous — accepts sinking pellets, frozen foods, and live foods

📊 Overview Table

📝 Snippet

• The Giant Upside Down Catfish (Synodontis batensoda) is a large, peaceful African catfish famous for swimming upside down.
• Suitable for spacious African biotope or community tanks with compatible tankmates.