Dwarf Petricola
Dwarf Petricola (Synodontis lucipinnis) is a miniature version of the well-known Synodontis petricola — a Lake Tanganyika catfish with a spotted pattern and the characteristic upward-turned mouth of the mochokid family. At under 3 inches it is considerably smaller than most Synodontis species, making it one of the few truly community-appropriate catfish from Lake Tanganyika. The bold white spots on a dark body are striking and immediately recognizable.
Feeding & Care Tip: Hikari Sinking Wafers and Hikari Mini Algae Wafers make excellent staples — feed after lights out. Supplement with Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Bloodworms and Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Brine Shrimp 2–3 times per week. Hard, alkaline water replicating Lake Tanganyika is important for long-term health.
Native to the rocky shorelines of Lake Tanganyika — a lake with exceptionally hard, alkaline, clear water. Synodontis lucipinnis was only described as a distinct species in 2006, previously confused with S. petricola and S. multipunctatus. It inhabits rocky areas and crevices in the shallows, grazing on algae and invertebrates.
Keep in groups of three or more — Dwarf Petricola are more active and bold in numbers. They are ideal tankmates for Tanganyikan cichlids such as shell dwellers, Julidochromis, and smaller Lamprologus species. Requires the same hard, alkaline water as its Tanganyikan tankmates — do not keep in soft acidic conditions.
One of the most useful catfish for Tanganyikan biotope aquariums — small enough for community setups, active enough to be visible, and naturally paired with the cichlids it shares a lake with. The spotted pattern and upturned mouth are distinctive and attractive.
Care & Ideal Parameters
| Difficulty | Easy — Moderate |
| Temperament | Peaceful — community |
| Typical Adult Size | 2.75 inches (7 cm) |
| Min. Group Size | 3 minimum |
| Ideal Temp | 75–82°F (24–28°C) |
| Ideal pH | 7.8–9.0 |
| Ideal GH | 10–20 dGH |
| Ideal KH | 8–15 dKH |
| Staple Food | Hikari Sinking Wafers; Hikari Mini Algae Wafers |
| Treat / Supplement | Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Bloodworms; Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Brine Shrimp |
| Origin | Lake Tanganyika, East Africa |
| Notes | Described as distinct species in 2006 — previously confused with S. petricola and S. multipunctatus. Hard alkaline water essential. Ideal for Tanganyikan community tanks. Spotted pattern distinctive. |
