Featherfin Catfish: Fish Species Profile

The Featherfin Catfish (Synodontis eupterus) is a distinctive and peaceful species of freshwater catfish, recognized for its long, flowing dorsal fin that resembles feathers. Native to the rivers of Central and West Africa, this species is well-loved in the aquarium hobby for its unique appearance and peaceful temperament. Featherfin Catfish are hardy, adaptable fish that thrive in a variety of aquarium setups, making them an excellent choice for aquarists of all experience levels.

• Common Names: Featherfin Catfish, Featherfin Squeaker
• Scientific Name: Synodontis eupterus
• Adult Size: Typically 8 to 10 inches (20 to 25 cm) in length
• Life Expectancy: 10 to 15 years in a well-maintained tank

Characteristics

The Featherfin Catfish is known for its striking appearance, characterized by its elongated body, long pectoral fins, and delicate, feather-like dorsal fin. These fish have a streamlined body with a mix of brown or gray hues, often speckled with dark spots or markings. The long, flowing fins are the highlight of this species, making it a beautiful and graceful addition to any tank. They have barbels on either side of their mouth, which help them locate food in the substrate. Featherfin Catfish are peaceful and nocturnal, spending most of their time foraging on the tank floor for food.

• Family: Mochokidae
• Origin: Native to the rivers of Central and West Africa, including the Chad, Cross, and Congo basins
• Social Behavior: Peaceful and nocturnal; solitary by nature, but can be kept with other peaceful fish
• Tank Level: Bottom-dwelling fish
• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons (114 liters) for a single adult
• Diet: Omnivorous, feeding on a variety of plant material, small invertebrates, and detritus
• Breeding: Egg layers; not commonly bred in captivity
• Care Level: Moderate; suitable for intermediate aquarists
• Water Conditions:
  • pH: 6.5 to 7.5
  • Temperature: 75°F to 82°F (24°C to 28°C)
  • Hardness: 2 to 15 dGH

Origin and Distribution

The Featherfin Catfish is native to the freshwater rivers and streams of Central and West Africa. It is typically found in slow-moving waters with plenty of rocks, fallen trees, and vegetation. In these environments, the fish forages for small invertebrates, plant matter, and detritus. Featherfin Catfish are widely available in the aquarium trade, where they are bred in captivity for the hobby.

Colors and Markings

The Featherfin Catfish has a mottled brown or gray body that helps it blend into its natural habitat, with darker spots or markings across its sides. The most distinctive feature of this species is its long, elegant pectoral and dorsal fins, which give it a graceful appearance. These fins are often described as feather-like due to their shape and length. The fish’s eyes are large, round, and expressive, adding to its unique appeal.

Tankmates

Featherfin Catfish are peaceful and can be housed with other non-aggressive species in a community aquarium. While they are nocturnal and spend much of their time foraging on the tank floor, they do appreciate having plenty of hiding spaces, such as caves, driftwood, and rocks. Featherfin Catfish can coexist with other peaceful bottom-dwellers like Corydoras catfish, as well as mid- and top-level swimmers. They are best kept with other non-aggressive species and should not be housed with overly territorial or aggressive fish.

• Recommended Tankmates:
  • Peaceful bottom-dwelling species like Corydoras catfish, plecos, or small loaches
  • Peaceful mid-water swimmers like tetras, rasboras, or guppies
  • Small to medium-sized peaceful cichlids
  • Shrimp or peaceful snails
• Fish to Avoid:
  • Aggressive or territorial species like large cichlids, barbs, or predatory fish
  • Fish that may nip at its delicate fins or outcompete it for food

Habitat and Care

Featherfin Catfish are relatively easy to care for, but they do best in aquariums that mimic their natural environment. Providing plenty of hiding spots, such as caves, driftwood, or rocks, will allow the catfish to feel secure. They prefer a soft substrate like sand or fine gravel, which allows them to forage for food without damaging their barbels. Moderate filtration is essential to maintain water quality, but they do not like strong water currents, so a gentle flow is ideal.

• Ideal Aquarium Conditions:
  • Soft substrate like sand or fine gravel for easy navigation
  • Plenty of hiding spots created by caves, driftwood, or rocks
  • Moderate filtration to maintain water quality without strong currents
  • Regular water changes (at least 25% per week) to keep the water clean
  • Stable water temperature and pH levels within the recommended range

Diet and Feeding

Featherfin Catfish are omnivores and will eat a variety of foods, including sinking pellets, bloodworms, brine shrimp, and small live or frozen foods. They are also known to scavenge the substrate for any leftover food, making them excellent cleaners in the tank. In addition to protein-rich foods, they will appreciate occasional plant-based foods, such as blanched spinach, zucchini, or algae wafers.

• Feeding Tips:
  • Feed 1-2 times a day in small amounts
  • Offer sinking pellets or foods that reach the bottom of the tank
  • Supplement with live or frozen foods like brine shrimp or bloodworms
  • Occasionally offer blanched vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition
  • Remove uneaten food after 5-10 minutes to avoid water quality issues

Gender Differences

Male and female Featherfin Catfish are difficult to differentiate, as they look quite similar in appearance. However, males may be slightly smaller, with more delicate fins, especially during the breeding season. Females are typically larger and rounder, especially when gravid (carrying eggs).

• Male: Smaller, with more delicate fins, especially during breeding
• Female: Larger, rounder, particularly when gravid

Breeding

Breeding Featherfin Catfish in captivity is not common, as they are more often kept for their unique appearance and peaceful nature. However, breeding can occur if the right conditions are provided. These fish are egg layers, and the female typically lays her eggs on flat surfaces like rocks or breeding mats. The male fertilizes the eggs, and after a few days, the eggs hatch. The fry are free-swimming after about a week and can be fed infusoria or finely crushed flakes until they are large enough to eat regular food.

• Breeding Tips:
  • Provide a separate breeding area with flat surfaces for egg laying
  • Maintain stable water conditions with slightly acidic to neutral pH and moderate temperature
  • After hatching, move the fry to a separate tank or use a breeding net to protect them from adult fish

More Pet Fish Species and Further Research

If you enjoy keeping Featherfin Catfish, you may want to explore other species of peaceful catfish, such as the Corydoras species, Synodontis species, or smaller plecos. Additionally, other peaceful bottom-dwelling species like loaches or shrimp can make great tankmates.

FAQ

Q: How many Featherfin Catfish should I keep together?
A: Featherfin Catfish are generally solitary or kept in pairs. They are peaceful and do not need to be kept in schools, but it’s important to provide them with enough space to establish their territories.

Q: Are Featherfin Catfish hard to care for?
A: Featherfin Catfish are relatively easy to care for, but they do require a tank with stable water conditions and plenty of hiding spaces. They are suitable for intermediate aquarists.

Q: How can I tell if my Featherfin Catfish is male or female?
A: Male and female Featherfin Catfish look quite similar, but males are generally smaller and may have more delicate or longer fins, particularly during breeding. Females are typically larger and rounder, especially when gravid.