Featherfin Squeaker

Featherfin Squeaker (Synodontis Eupterus)

The Featherfin Squeaker, also known as the Featherfin Catfish, Lace Cat, Synodontis Lace Catfish, is a unique and interesting addition to any aquarium. This species is known for its high dorsal fin, which gives it a feather-like appearance, hence the name. The Featherfin Squeaker has an olive-brown body adorned with small, dark spots. As the fish matures, these spots can become blurred. The fish can reach a size of up to 6 to 9 inches.

Featherfin Squeakers are peaceful fish that are best kept in groups of at least 4 or 5. They are known to make growling and crackling noises produced by their pectoral fins. These sounds are normal to their behavior and should not cause alarm.

Featherfin Squeakers are adaptable and can coexist with a variety of peaceful ornamental fish at least 2 inches in size and adjust to their water conditions. They can share their habitat with tranquil medium-sized tetras, barbs, gouramis, knifefish, large loricariids, rainbowfish, or some sturdy West African cichlid species. Avoid Featherfin Squeakers if you have pet snails because they love to eat them. They have been also been known to harass smaller bottom feeders like Corydoras or Otocinclus. It's also important to steer clear of species known to peck at the fins of their tank mates.

Despite being readily available, the Featherfin Squeaker may not be the best fit for a typical community aquarium. Especially for smaller aquariums, it might be more appropriate to consider more compact species like the Upside Down Catfish (S. nigriventris).

In terms of diet, Featherfin Squeakers are omnivores. They enjoy a variety of foods, including live and frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, blood worm, and mosquito larvae. They also accept sinking pellets and fresh vegetables like cucumbers or crushed peas. These fish are known to be quite greedy, so it's important to feed them moderately and include fasting days in their feeding schedule. Since they are nocturnal, they should preferably be fed in the evening.

The ideal tank habitat for Featherfin Squeakers should mimic their natural environment. The aquarium should have a soft substrate and be filled with plenty of hiding places, such as roots, stones, or clay tubes. Plants can be added, but they should be robust species such as Java Ferns, Amazon Swords, and Dwarf Sagittaria, as the Featherfin Squeakers is an active swimmer and may disturb delicate plants. Dense border planting can also be used to provide additional cover. They will tend to keep to hiding places and holes if the aquarium is too bright, so the light is recommended to be subdued. The aquarium should be at least 2 meters long to provide ample space for these active swimmers.

Featherfin Catfish requires a tank of at least 50 gallons or larger for community setups. The water parameters for Featherfin Squeakers can vary depending on whether they are West African or East African species.

• West African species prefer a water temperature of 74–82°F (23–28°C), a pH value of 6.0–7.0, and a total hardness of 2–25 dGH.
• East African species prefer the same temperature range but a higher pH value of 7.0–8.5 and the same total hardness range.

Regular water changes and good filtration are essential to maintain the water quality.