Petricola Catfish

Synodontis petricola

CatfishIntermediate

Species Details

Small, peaceful African catfish perfect for Tanganyikan cichlid tanks. Active during day and stays manageable size.

Intermediate Care Level

Basic Information

Size10-13 cm (4-5 inches)
TemperamentPeaceful
DietOmnivorous
Lifespan8-15 years
Tank Size200+ litres (50+ gallons)

Water Parameters

Temperature
24-28°C (75-82°F)
pH Level
7.5-8.5
Hardness
10-25 dGH

Tank Mate Recommendations

Based on 1 selected species

Current Selection:

Petricola Catfish
Fully Compatible Species
Compatible

Malawian Cichlids

Various Pseudotropheus, Melanochromis, Labidochromis

Cichlids
Size:7.6-15.2 cm (3-6 inches)
Care Level:Intermediate
Temperament:Aggressive/Territorial
100%
Compatible

Angelfish

Pterophyllum scalare

Cichlids
Size:15 cm tall, 20 cm long (6 inches tall, 8 inches long)
Care Level:Beginner
Temperament:Peaceful/Semi-aggressive
100%
Compatible

Tanganyikan Cichlids

Various Lamprologus, Julidochromis, Neolamprologus

Cichlids
Size:5-20 cm (2-8 inches)
Care Level:Intermediate
Temperament:Semi-aggressive
100%
Compatible

Bronze Corydoras

Corydoras aeneus

Catfish
Size:7 cm (2.8 inches)
Care Level:Beginner
Temperament:Peaceful
100%
Compatible

Peppered Corydoras

Corydoras paleatus

Catfish
Size:7 cm (2.8 inches)
Care Level:Beginner
Temperament:Peaceful
100%
Compatible

Panda Corydoras

Corydoras panda

Catfish
Size:5 cm (2 inches)
Care Level:Intermediate
Temperament:Peaceful
100%

💡 Tank Mate Tips

• Consider adult size when planning tank space

• Research specific water parameter requirements

• Introduce new fish gradually to reduce stress

• Monitor behavior closely during the first weeks

Quick Facts

Small African catfish perfect for Tanganyikan setups

Stays small at 10-13 cm (4-5 inches)

Peaceful and excellent for cichlid tanks

Active during day unlike many catfish

Omnivorous diet with preference for small foods

Beautiful spotted pattern with large eyes

Lives 8-15 years with proper care

Excellent for Lake Tanganyika biotopes

Social - should be kept in groups of 3+

Very peaceful even with small cichlids

Compatibility Summary

Compatible Species6
Requires Caution3

Care Requirements

Tank Size200+ litres (50+ gallons)
Temperature24-28°C (75-82°F)
pH7.5-8.5
Hardness10-25 dGH