Albert's Synodontis (Synodontis alberti)

Albert's Synodontis (Synodontis alberti)
Big-Eyed, Big Personality Bottom Dweller

Add something a little different to your setup with the elusive and rarely seen Albert’s Synodontis — also known as the Bigeye Squeaker or Bigspotted Squeaker. Native to the upper Congo River around Kinshasa and Brazzaville, this striking African catfish is known for its distinctive look, fascinating behaviour, and audible "squeaking" sound when disturbed.

🔹 Maximum Size: Grows to around 20cm (8")
🔹 pH Range: 6.0 – 8.0
🔹 Temperature Range: 21 – 25°C
🔹 Temperament: Semi-peaceful bottom dweller; prefers to be kept alone or with medium-sized community fish
🔹 Origin: Wild-caught, Congo Basin

Key Features:

• Big Eyes & Long Barbels: Instantly recognisable by its oversized eyes and long, sweeping maxillary barbels. Great for late-night exploring!

• Nocturnal & Shy: Loves a dark cave or driftwood hideaway and comes alive at night. Expect it to quietly cruise your tank under cover of darkness.

• Unique Feeding Style: Feeds on sinking pellets, bloodworm, and scrapes algae with its mobile, S-shaped lower jaw teeth. Not a full-time algae eater, but definitely a helper!

• Solo but Socially Compatible: Won’t bother healthy smaller fish, but may stress timid species with those long barbels during night patrols.

Best Setup:

• Soft, rounded substrate to protect barbels

• Driftwood preferred over rock structures

• At least one cave or dark refuge is essential

• Optional plants may encourage more visible daytime behaviour

Feeding:

• Sinking catfish pellets

• Bloodworm

• Occasional algae grazing (not primary food source)

This species is rarely available in NZ, and with its limited wild collection, Albert’s Synodontis is a great pick for collectors or those wanting a standout catfish with personality and history.