Brichard’s synodontis - Synodontis brichardi

Scientific name: Synodontis brichardi

Common name: Brichard’s synodontis

Family: Mochokidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 12 - 15 cm (4.72 - 5.91 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6 - 8

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 6 - 19°N (107.14 - 339.29ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 22 - 27 °C (71.6 - 80.6°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: Africa

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Bottom levels

Food and Feeding

Brichard’s Synodontis is an omnivore with a varied diet. Offer high-quality flakes or sinking pellets as the staple food, supplemented with meaty treats such as bloodworms and brine shrimp. Adding spirulina flakes to their diet ensures they receive essential plant-based nutrients, promoting overall health. Feeding them during the evening or just before lights out aligns with their nocturnal habits.

Origin

Synodontis brichardi is native to Africa, specifically the Congo River Basin in Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of Congo). These fast-flowing waters with rocky substrates provide the ideal habitat for this bottom-dwelling species.

Sexing

Determining the sex of Brichard’s Synodontis is challenging as there are no clear external differences between males and females.

Breeding

To date, there are no documented cases of Synodontis brichardi successfully breeding in home aquariums. In their natural habitat, they are believed to spawn among rocks or submerged vegetation, and replicating these conditions may help encourage breeding attempts.

Lifespan

With proper care, the average lifespan of Synodontis brichardi is 5-8 years, making them a long-term commitment for aquarists.

Tank Setup and Behavior

Brichard’s Synodontis thrives in well-oxygenated tanks with a strong water flow to mimic its natural environment. The use of powerheads or additional filtration can help achieve these conditions. Provide a sandy or fine gravel substrate to accommodate their bottom-dwelling behavior and include plenty of hiding spots such as caves, driftwood, and rockwork to make them feel secure.

This species is peaceful and social, making it suitable for community tanks with similarly sized, non-aggressive fish. Ideal tankmates include:

Congo Tetras – Colorful and peaceful companions.
Bolivian Rams – Gentle cichlids that coexist well.
Pearl Gouramis – Non-aggressive mid-level swimmers.
Clown Loaches – Bottom-dwelling companions with similar environmental needs.

Avoid keeping them with aggressive or territorial fish that might stress or outcompete them for food. Brichard’s Synodontis is nocturnal, so subdued lighting and a structured tank layout will encourage more natural behavior.

Recommended Plants

Though not a plant-focused species, hardy plants can enhance the tank’s aesthetics and provide additional hiding spots. Suitable plants include:

Anubias – Hardy and attaches to rocks or driftwood.
Java Fern – Thrives in low-light conditions and requires minimal care.
Java Moss – Great for creating natural hiding places.
Cryptocoryne Wendtii – Adds a lush, green appearance to the tank.

Short Description

Synodontis brichardi, known as Brichard’s Synodontis, is a peaceful yet resilient bottom-dweller from the Congo River Basin. With its striking appearance and manageable size, this species is a great addition to community aquariums. Its nocturnal nature and preference for well-oxygenated, fast-flowing water make it an intriguing choice for aquarists who can provide the proper care and environment.