Unidentifiable Synodontis

[tr0b3]

I have recently aquired a 3 inch "Synodontis Nigriventris" (Upside Down
Catfish). Although this fish does swim entirely upside down, it to does
not exhibit many of the other identification marks of a true
Nigriventris. The fish is entirely black with long wiskers and
resembles a Arius Seemanni much more than a Nigriventris. It is also
extremely aggressive and predatory. It consumed 24 guppies, in one
evening, it's first night in my communal tank. It has since been
isolated in a small tank until I can figure out what it really is.
Does anyone have any information regarding a fish that matches this
description? Thank you in advance for any information.

[MEAlston]

Take a photo and post it on the web somewhere.....-ED

[Liisa Sarakontu]

"tr0b3" > wrote in
oups.com:

> I have recently aquired a 3 inch "Synodontis Nigriventris" (Upside Down
> Catfish). Although this fish does swim entirely upside down, it to does
> not exhibit many of the other identification marks of a true
> Nigriventris. The fish is entirely black with long wiskers and
> resembles a Arius Seemanni much more than a Nigriventris.

You have a Mystus leucophasis, "Asian upside down catfish" there. It is a
medium-sized (up to 7-8") predator and not suitable for community tanks or
for small aquariums.

Liisa

[tr0b3]

I just did a little research on the Mystus. Perfect match! Thank you so
much Liisa! This fish is amazing to watch at night with a black light.
It has very small diamond shaped white spots that show up wonderfully
under the light. It's also a very interesting hunter. He likes to flip
in place for about 5 minutes in his cave before he shoots out lightning
fast to grab a guppie. He's also extremely durable as my medications
have not slowed him down one bit. Very interesting cat.