Synodontis Schoutedeni

Synodontis schoutedeni is recognized by the dark brown, wavy lines on a yellowish light brown background that link up like a net; each individual's pattern is slightly different. It lives in the central Congo basin, along riverbanks full of roots and sunken wood. Adults reach 15–17 cm. It hides during the day and forages on the bottom at night.

• At least 200 liters and 120 cm of length for a single fish or a small group.
• Roots, caves and pipes; a separate hiding place for each individual.
• 23–27°C, pH 6.0–7.5, soft to moderately hard water; fine sand substrate.
• Strong filtration, a dim setting and regular water changes.

Omnivorous. Sinking granules and tablets, frozen bloodworms, mysis and spirulina tablets are suitable. Do the main feeding after the lights go out.

A peaceful, calm species; it also generally gets along with its own kind, but scuffles start when hiding places are scarce. It leaves adult fish alone; it eats fry and dwarf shrimp. Its spines get caught in nets, and its scaleless skin is sensitive to copper.

Good companions: medium-sized tetras, barbs, rainbowfish, calm African and American cichlids, plecos.

Avoid: dwarf shrimp, large aggressive cichlids that claim the bottom.