There are two main species of Synodontis catfish that are identified as Upside Down Catfish.  Both of them originally come from Zaire in Africa.  One is Synodontis Contractus, which is also called the Bugeye Squeaker.  The other is Synodontis Nigriventris, so called because of its dark belly (remember that would be at the top when it swims).  They are both nocturnal, very active and very peaceful.  They have a large adipose fin.  Upside Down Catfish spend the daylight hours hiding in caves and their nights are spent swimming continually upside down.  The aquarium should have flower pots or plastic pipe for them to hide in.  A floating plant cover will help them feel secure.  They are schooling fish and should be kept in groups of at least 4 - 6 whenever possible.  In the wild, they school in much larger groups.  Upside Down Catfish eat flake foods, but should be given live foods too, such as brine shrimp, blood worms, glass worms, and earthworms.

Females are broader and sometimes lighter.  Breeding is very difficult.

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