Synodontis petricola is one of the most striking, beautiful fishes from Lake Tanganyika, and only recently have we begun to realise that there are actually two "Petricola". The true Petricola reaches a maximum size of approximately 8", though some individuals reach a maximum size of only about 4". These smaller individuals, known in the hobby as "Dwarf Petricola," or "Dwarf Synodontis," are actually a separate species, Synodontis lucipinnis . Similar in all other aspects to Petricola, these are a much smaller fish, better suited to the average aquarium.

Dwarf Synos tend to be fairly forgiving about water conditions, provided the water is clean; we've had them spawn in tanks with wild bettas, at a pH below 6.0. While this isn't the recommended water conditions, they didn't seem to mind (we didn't hear any complaints!). They are shoaling catfish, and should be maintained in small groups. In a tank with lots of rockwork, or other hiding spots (including driftwood or even PVC bits), fry will often be found.

Ideal tank mates for this fish would include any of the small shell dwelling Tanganyikan cichlids, such as Neolamprologus, Altolamprologus, or Julidochromis species.

We do recommend that a good, high quality, sinking pellet be given as a staple for their diet, such as New Era Catfish Pellets.