PlanetCatfish.com

He folks, well it seems that the fish I REALLY want is rarely available, namely Synodontis Robertsi, so I wondered what other west african synos, that get no larger, would be a viable alternative ? Thanks.

All these can sometimes be had...some more than others
interesting look and character
a group of these in a properly set up tank is much more interesting than most think.
Zebra kutu variant from Lac Mai-Ndombe are sometimes but not often available
often stay smaller than the Cat-eLog shows.
some would say plain but a good little syno when not confused with nigrita
Also there are two species of often available as well as also a great looking durable little fish.

Birger

They grow a little bigger than S. robertsi, but Synodontis congica are lovely catfish. My one was ordered online from Wildwoods as a notata, in two years it has grown in length very little, something like ~9cm SL. Very placid for a syno in behaviour and eating habits, my one can be trusted with any smaller fish (including newborn Ilyodon xantusi), very diurnal for a fish with "bug eyes." My only regret is that I only have one, they do very well in groups apparently, but knowing my luck if I ordered some more I would have ended up with a batch of notata (since then I locally rehomed an adult notata who is quite mild mannered, but a chunky ~22cm SL fish).

Hi,

I would say be patient and keep trying. Look for other shops you wouldnt normally visit see if you can find a friendly staff or owner it may not be in stock but that doesnt mean to say it not on lists. Local shop to me mentioned these guys and said they had an order coming in next week Friday that may have some on it. I was planning on calling them to check to see if any turned up. First mention I have heard of them in 10 months+ so excited for me as have a 2ft cycled waiting for a few. Its slow but I would really advise keep trying if you want something its not banned so its get able.

If i find a set I will let you know.