🐟 Zebra Synodontis Care Guide (Hybrid Synodontis Catfish)

The Zebra Synodontis is a visually striking, peaceful hybrid catfish popular in freshwater aquariums. Known for its bold zebra-like stripes and bottom-dwelling habits, this fish is not a wild species but rather a selectively bred hybrid, often a mix of Synodontis eupterus, nigriventris, or decorus. Its manageable size and hardy nature make it ideal for beginner to intermediate aquarists.

📌 Quick Facts – Zebra Synodontis (Hybrid)

🏷️ Feature	📋 Details
🐟 Common Name	Zebra Synodontis
🧬 Scientific Status	Hybrid (non-wild, not taxonomically classified)
🗺️ Origin	Captive-bred (Africa-derived parent species)
📏 Max Size	~5–6 inches (12–15 cm)
🧭 Temperament	Peaceful, shy, nocturnal
🏡 Tank Size	Minimum 30 gallons (113+ liters)
💧 Water Temp	74–80°F (23–27°C)
⚗️ pH Range	6.5–7.5
🐾 Level	Bottom-dweller
🍽️ Diet	Omnivorous
🌿 Lifespan	8–10 years (in proper conditions)

🔍 What is a Zebra Synodontis?

The Zebra Synodontis is a hybrid catfish, selectively bred in captivity to enhance its vivid black-and-white stripes. It does not occur naturally in the wild and may vary slightly in body shape and fin size depending on its hybrid lineage.

🔧 Likely Parent Species:

Synodontis eupterus (Featherfin catfish)
Synodontis nigriventris (Upside-down catfish)
Synodontis decorus (Decorated Synodontis)

⚠️ Note: This fish is often mislabeled in pet stores. Ask for the source or breeding origin to avoid confusion with wild types.

🏡 Tank Setup & Habitat

📐 Minimum Tank Size

30 gallons (113 liters) — larger is better for groups

🌿 Tank Environment

✅ Smooth substrate (sand or rounded gravel)
✅ Plenty of hiding spots: caves, driftwood, PVC tubes
✅ Dim lighting or floating plants to simulate low-light environments
✅ Moderate water flow and oxygenation

💧 Water Parameters

💦 Parameter	✅ Ideal Range
🌡️ Temp	74–80°F (23–27°C)
⚗️ pH	6.5–7.5
💧 Hardness	Soft to moderately hard

🍽️ Diet & Feeding

Zebra Synodontis are omnivores and will scavenge the bottom for food. Feed at night for best results.

🍽️ Recommended Foods:

Sinking pellets and wafers
Frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia
Occasional veggies (blanched zucchini, cucumber)
Insect-based protein foods

⚠️ Avoid overfeeding. Uneaten food can quickly foul the water in low-flow bottom zones.

🤝 Tankmates & Compatibility

Zebra Synodontis are generally peaceful and community-friendly, especially with other calm species.

✅ Good Tankmates:

Peaceful tetras, rasboras, barbs
Other Synodontis catfish
Corydoras
Gouramis
Rainbowfish

❌ Avoid:

Aggressive cichlids (especially fin-nippers)
Highly territorial bottom dwellers

🧠 Behavior & Personality

🌙 Nocturnal — most active at night
🔇 Quiet and shy during the day
🤿 Enjoys exploring caves and hiding spots
🐾 May be solitary but not aggressive

Tip: Use red or blue night lights to observe natural behavior after dark.

⚠️ Important: Hybrid Status Considerations

🧬 Not a wild species — Zebra Synodontis is a man-made hybrid
📸 Appearance may vary between individuals
❌ Not suitable for breeding projects or species tanks
✅ Hardy and adaptable for community aquariums

📝 Summary

The Zebra Synodontis hybrid catfish is a beautiful, peaceful, and easy-to-care-for bottom-dweller perfect for aquarists seeking a visually striking and low-maintenance species. Its hybrid nature means it's best kept as a display or community fish rather than for breeding or species-specific setups.