🐟 One-Spot Squeaker Catfish (Synodontis notatus)
Congo Basin Catfish • Often Out and About by Day • Spot Count Varies
 
📋 The One-Spot Squeaker Catfish, also called the Domino Synodontis or One-Spot Synodontis, is a robust catfish from the Congo Basin, named for the dark spot that most individuals carry on the flank. The spot count varies: some regional forms show three, six, or twelve spots, and some have none at all, and the number may differ from one side of the body to the other.
Unlike many Synodontis, this species is more active during the day, which makes it a great fit for an aquarium with lively tankmates, and means you'll see it out and about rather than only at night. It's peaceful with robust fish of similar size and will eat fish small enough to swallow. Like other squeaker catfish, it can produce an audible squeak with its pectoral spines when handled, and those spines tangle easily in nets.
 
💡 Highlights
⚫ Distinctive Spot Pattern: Usually one bold dark spot, with regional forms showing more
☀️ Often Active by Day: Unlike most Synodontis
📏 Grows to About 20-25cm: A substantial, bulky catfish
🛡️ Peaceful With Robust Tankmates: Best with similarly sized, sturdy fish
🌊 Loves Strong Filtration: A hearty eater with a big presence