Common Name: Orangestriped Squeaker Catfish
Scientific Name: Synodontis flavitaeniatus
Other Names: Yellowstriped Synodontis, Orangestriped Synodontis
The Orangestriped Squeaker Catfish is a beautifully patterned Synodontis species known for its slender body, distinctive orange or yellow horizontal stripes, and elongated whisker-like barbels. Unlike many other Synodontis, it has a more peaceful disposition, making it a great choice for well-maintained community or African river biotope aquariums. It is named a "squeaker" due to its ability to produce sounds by grinding its pectoral fin bones against its sockets, a behavior commonly seen in the Synodontis genus.
Habitat and Distribution:
Native to the Congo River Basin in Central Africa, Synodontis flavitaeniatus is found in slow-moving streams, tributaries, and areas with submerged driftwood and dense aquatic vegetation. It thrives in warm, soft to slightly acidic water with moderate flow, often inhabiting areas with rocky crevices and leaf litter where it can hide during the day.
Size and Lifespan:
This species grows to about 6-7 inches (15-18 cm) in captivity. With proper care, it can live for 10-15 years.
Diet and Behavior:
The Orangestriped Squeaker Catfish is an omnivore that scavenges for small invertebrates, biofilm, and plant matter in the wild. In captivity, it should be fed a varied diet of high-quality sinking omnivore pellets, frozen or live foods such as bloodworms, blackworms, and chopped shrimp, as well as vegetable matter like spirulina wafers and blanched zucchini. It is primarily nocturnal but can become more active during the day once it acclimates to the aquarium.
Breeding and Reproduction:
Breeding Synodontis flavitaeniatus in captivity is extremely rare, with little documentation of successful spawns. Like other Synodontis species, they are believed to be egg scatterers that may spawn in rocky crevices or hidden areas. Most individuals in the aquarium trade are wild-caught.
Aquarium Care and Tank Requirements:
A minimum of 55 gallons is recommended for a single specimen, with a larger tank (75+ gallons) preferred for community setups. Their ideal tank setup includes a soft sand or fine gravel substrate to prevent barbel damage, plenty of driftwood, rock caves, and hiding spots, moderate water flow with good filtration, and dim to moderate lighting to accommodate their nocturnal habits.
Ideal Tank Mates:
The Orangestriped Squeaker Catfish is peaceful compared to other Synodontis species and can coexist with a wide variety of tank mates. Suitable companions include Tetras, Congo Tetras, African Cichlids (non-aggressive types such as Steatocranus and Pelvicachromis), Dwarf Cichlids, and other Synodontis species. Avoid overly aggressive fish that may stress or outcompete them for food.
Difficulty Level:
Intermediate. They require stable water conditions, a well-structured tank with hiding spots, and a varied diet to thrive.
Water Parameters:
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Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
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pH: 6.5-7.5
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General Hardness (GH): 5-12 dGH
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Carbonate Hardness (KH): 3-8 dKH
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Ammonia: 0 ppm
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Nitrite: 0 ppm
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Nitrate: <20 ppm (regular water changes required)
Additional Information:
- They become more outgoing over time but prefer hiding spots during the day.
- They are excellent scavengers but should still be fed a well-rounded diet.
- Their "squeaking" sound is most often heard when they are handled or interacting with tank mates.
The Orangestriped Squeaker Catfish is a stunning and peaceful Synodontis species that makes a great addition to African-themed or community aquariums. With proper care, it will provide years of unique behavior and striking coloration.
