Synodontis alberti, commonly known as the Bigeye Squeaker or Albert’s Syno, is a freshwater catfish species belonging to the family Mochokidae. Native to the Congo Basin in Central Africa, this species is notable for its distinctive appearance and unique behaviors, making it a subject of interest among aquarists and ichthyologists alike.
Physical Characteristics:
S. alberti is characterized by its silver-gray body adorned with prominent dark spots, which are more pronounced in males. Females tend to have a more subdued coloration, with the spots fading as they mature. A distinguishing feature of this species is its relatively large eyes, which contribute to its common name, “Bigeye Squeaker.” The fish possesses one pair of exceptionally long maxillary barbels and two pairs of mandibular barbels, which are often branched. The dorsal and caudal fins are elongated and tend to grow longer with age, with the caudal fin being deeply forked and exhibiting an extension on the top lobe. In captivity, S. alberti can reach a length of approximately 6.5 inches (16.5 centimeters).
Habitat and Distribution:
This species is indigenous to the Congo Basin, encompassing regions in Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and the Republic of the Congo. It was first described in 1891 by Belgian ichthyologist Louise Schilthuis after its discovery in the Malebo Pool of the Congo River. S. alberti typically inhabits freshwater environments within this basin.
Behavior and Diet:
Unlike some other members of the Synodontis genus, S. alberti does not commonly exhibit upside-down swimming or feeding behaviors. The species is generally peaceful and can coexist with other fish species, provided they are over 2 inches in length to avoid predation. In terms of diet, S. alberti is omnivorous, feeding on a variety of foods available in its natural habitat.
Aquarium Care:
For aquarists interested in keeping S. alberti, it is recommended to maintain them in a tank that accommodates their potential size and provides an environment that mimics their natural habitat. Given their peaceful nature, they can be housed with a variety of tankmates, including Alestiid tetras, cichlids, and other Synodontis species. Providing hiding spots and a well-structured environment can help mitigate potential conflicts and promote natural behaviors.
