Yellow Marble Synodontis (Synodontis sp.) Care Guide:
The Yellow Marble Synodontis is a strikingly patterned African catfish known for its yellow and black marbled coloration and peaceful, nocturnal nature. It thrives in well-oxygenated freshwater aquariums with plenty of hiding spots like caves, driftwood, and rocks. A minimum tank size of 40 gallons is recommended, as these fish can grow up to 6–8 inches and are active swimmers. Ideal water parameters include temperatures of 75–82°F (24–28°C), pH 6.5–7.8, and moderate hardness. They are omnivorous scavengers, feeding on sinking pellets, frozen foods, and occasional vegetables. Generally peaceful but territorial toward their own kind, they do best with similarly sized, non-aggressive tankmates. Regular water changes and a secure lid are essential, as they may jump or become stressed by poor water quality.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Synodontis sp. (“Yellow Marble”) |
| Common Name | Yellow Marble Synodontis |
| Origin | Africa (Congo Basin region, captive-bred variants) |
| Size | 6–8 inches (15–20 cm) |
| Tank Size | Minimum 40 gallons |
| Temperature | 75–82°F (24–28°C) |
| pH | 6.5–7.8 |
| Water Hardness | 5–20 dGH |
| Diet | Omnivorous – sinking pellets, frozen foods, veggies |
| Temperament | Peaceful to mildly territorial |
| Tank Setup | Caves, driftwood, rocks, soft substrate |
| Lifespan | 8–10 years |
| Compatibility | Best with peaceful, medium-sized community fish |
