Upside-Down Catfish (Synodontis nigriventris), USA Bred!

The Upside-Down Catfish is an interesting, distinctively marked scavenger that is highly unique in its behavior.  As the name indicates, it regularly swims upside down in order to see predators and to feed on the undersides of plant leaves and other fish.  Additionally, it possesses darker coloration on its underside than on its back, which is quite unusual in freshwater fish.

 

The Upside-Down Catfish is a smaller Synodontis catfish.  It is suitable for many smaller community and semi-aggressive aquariums.  The Upside-Down Catfish is a peaceful predator, so it should not be housed with any animals that could potentially fit into its mouth (which is relatively small for a catfish).  Snails, as well as large Vampire Shrimp, Flower/Bamboo shrimp, and possibly large Amano Shrimp can be kept with the Upside-Down Catfish, but dwarf shrimp, microrasboras, and neon tetras may be eaten. All larger tankmates will be ignored.

 

The Upside-Down Catfish is most active at night, so evening feeding of flake foods, sinking pellets, or live and frozen meaty foods is recommended.  Unlike many catfish, it will often feed at the surface of the water.  This fish is often also active during daytime hours, but resting areas such as caves, driftwood, and planted areas are required.  It is an otherwise hardy and undemanding fish that can thrive as a single specimen or in a group.