Catfish for African Tank Options

[wrslrchiclids]

I was wondering if there were any good catfish (not plecos) that I can put into my tank? I used to have one that was pretty large and I really like him, but a mishap occurred and he died along with a few other fish. I believe he was a pictus catfish, but I am not sure. I planned on getting another pictus since they seem popular and enjoyable, but after researching I am not so sure. Will a pictus be ok with African cichlids? I read in some places (but not all) that they are not "tough" enough. I don't have tons of agression in my tank, but that could change with the addition of the catfish (I assume). I have read that Synodontis are good, but are there other catfish that would also work? I am looking for one that won't get massive, but I am going to be upgrading to a larger tank soon (probably a 125gal!! ). If I don't end up upgrading, I have a buddy that can take the catfish if it gets too big. He has multiple large tanks, and some are just for catfish!

Thanks

Tank: 55gal

3 Iodotropheus sprengerae
4 Metriaclima estherae
2 Jewel Cichlids (rehoming soon after learning that they probably should not be included in my tank)
1 Sciaenochromis fryeri
1 OB Zebra
3 Pseudotropheus socolofi
4 Cynotilapia afra sp. "Red Top"
1 albino bristlenose pleco

[Crowned]

Have never kept pictus cats, but have read mixed reviews on how they will do in a Malawi tank.

I've kept Synodontis eupterus in the past and they did very well. Am considering trying Synodontis nigriventris (upside down catfish).

[wrslrchiclids]

Thanks Crowned for the response. I was expecting a few more people to comment, but I guess not too many people keep catfish with their cichlids. No problem...

I decided to go with the Synodontis erupterus. My LFS had both the featherfin (erupterus) and upside down catfish, but the upside down catfish were only about 1-1.5 inches and probably would have gotten destroyed by my larger cichlids.

Thanks again, and if anyone else would like to comment on any catfish they keep with African cichlids that would be great!!

[Crowned]

How's the Syno doing?

I recently picked up an upside downer. So entertaining to watch. Originally put it in a Tang tank, but the pesky Brichardi wouldn't give it a break.

So went in a Malawi tank and is happy as a clam...

[Haile Selassie I]

My absolute favorite is the Synodontis Angelicus.

Mine is black with yellow spots... they are full of personality and can definitely hold their own against much bigger ACs.

[Misterted]

Old post but the most common Catfish people add to African Cichlid tanks are Synodontis Multipunctatus and Synodontis Petricola.
A lot of people also add various Plecos, but the ones that eat Veggies and not meat since most African Cichlids are Herbivores.

[CichidfreAk]

I had 2 upside down cats. Dont know ifntheyre the species u are talki g about. They did not get along whatsoever. Had to get rid of one cuz it bout died...they are very territorial. I know with experience from catfish.