Woodthorpe Hall Aquatics Petricola Catfish (Synodontis Petricola)

The Petricola Synodontis (Synodontis petricola), from the Mochokidae family in East Africa, boasts a striking black and white mottled appearance, perfectly suited for blending into its rocky natural habitat. This species, smaller than most of its relatives at just 10-12 cm (4-5 inches), is ideal for those looking to add a touch of the exotic to their Tanganyikan biotope aquariums without requiring extensive space.

The Petricola Synodontis is not just a beautiful addition to your aquarium but also a social creature. Its ease of care appeals to aquarists of all levels, from beginners to experts. For optimal well-being, it is recommended to keep these Catfish in groups of at least four. However, larger groups are encouraged for a more natural and interactive environment, emphasizing their social nature.

Compatibility

Tank mates for Petricola Synodontis should be peaceful and larger than 3cm to prevent predation. These Catfish fit best in a Tanganyikan setup with mid-sized, mouthbrooding Cichlids and can also live well with suitable Rainbowfish and Livebearers. Their habitat should have a soft sandy bottom to protect their barbels, along with plenty of rocks or PVC pipes, some driftwood, and hardy plants that can withstand alkaline conditions, providing shaded hiding spots. Despite their flexibility with lighting, Petricola Synodontis require a spacious tank with open swimming areas and robust plants, given their occasional uprooting behaviours. A strong filtration system is vital due to their feeding habits, alongside high oxygen levels and moderate water flow. Regular water changes are necessary for nitrate control. Given their ability to climb and jump, a secure lid is crucial to prevent escapes. Remember, a spacious tank is not just a luxury but a necessity for their well-being.

Diet

The Petricola Synodontis possesses an omnivorous dietary preference. It thrives on diverse nourishments, including high-grade sinking pellets and live or frozen delicacies like bloodworms and brine shrimp. Additionally, this Catfish displays an affinity for plant-based foods, including shelled peas and cucumber, which it meticulously consumes using the teeth located on its lower mandible.

Origin and Environment

The Petricola Synodontis is native to regions in Eastern Africa, specifically Burundi, Zambia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Tanzania. Its presence is exclusively documented within the confines of Lake Tanganyika, where it favours rocky shoreline habitats.

Payment Methods

We accept all major Credit and Debit cards, and these are processed via a third party payment gateway called Opayo. 

We also accept payments via PayPal, PayPal credit, Clearpay and Klarna which are both pay in 4 interest-free instalments. 

Also, you can pay using Android and Apple Pay if you are using a compatible device. 

Your payment information is processed securely. We do not store credit card details nor have access to your credit card information.

Security

When speaking to one of our team, we will never ask you for your bank details, passwords or any private information. We will only ever ask for your order number followed by either your postcode, email address or phone number to verify we are talking to the person named on the account. 

When creating an account on our website, we ask that you use a unique password, this will help keep all your online accounts safe. If you are visiting our website via a smartphone we suggest you use the strong password and store it securely on your phone. 

Our website is run on Visual Soft, which means all your data is stored securely on their servers. 

Next Day Shipping cut off is at Noon/12:00pm

Orders after that time will be processed the next working day

Please Note: Certain ponds, aquariums, all pond plants, and all livestock are excluded from free delivery.

The blue highlighted area on the map below is where we deliver on our own vehicle. Unfortunately, if you are not in one of these postcode zones we are unable to deliver certain items such as plants, small glass items and selective other products.

We offer a few different delivery options depending on the size and value of your order.

Certain orders over £50 qualify for free mainland UK (excludes Northern Ireland, Pond Plants, and livestock) delivery which will arrive within 3-5 working days of the order being processed.

Orders Below £50 in Mainland UK will be charged a standard delivery fee of £5.99.

Pond Plant and Tropical/Marine/Pond Livestock will be charged a delivery fee of £19.99.

Additional Shipping Charges

For any orders that do not include Aquariums, the below is charged:

Next Working Day Parcel Delivery to Mainland UK - £7.99 OR £2.99 if the order is over £50 (excludes Northern Ireland)

Standard Parcel Delivery to Northern Ireland £8.99

Standard Parcel Delivery to Scottish Highlands & Islands £9.99

Standard Parcel Delivery to Jersey & Guernsey £12.99

For all Aquarium, Medium - Extra Large Terrarium/Vivarium/Paludarium deliveries (Excluding biOrbs & Smaller Aquariums), the below is charged:

You must be present for delivery and please check your item before signing for delivery.

A payment link will be sent to you if redelivery is required.

Next Working Day Pallet Delivery - £20

2 Hour Booking Slot Pallet Delivery - £20

Pallet Delivery to Northern Ireland - £45

Saturday and OptiClear 90 & 120 Delivery - £60

Pallet Delivery to Isle of Wight (PO30 and Above) and Scottish Highlands (AB, PH, IV1-36, IV, KW1-14, KY, PA21-41) - £45

Pallet Delivery to the Scottish Isles (KA27-28, PA60-90, ZE, JE, GY, IM, IV40-56, KW15-17, PH42-44, PA20, PA42-49) - £120

Pallet Delivery to Outer Hebrides (HS) - £140

Pond's over 1000 litres will be a curb side pallet delivery.

Aquariums over 125 litre will be a curb side pallet delivery.

The couriers we use are Royal Mail, DX, APC, and UPN.

Standard Delivery

Northern Ireland Standard Delivery

Next Day Delivery

Cut off is Noon/12:00pm

Saturday Delivery

Cut off is Noon/12:00pm

Livestock Delivery

Cut off is Noon/12:00pm

Plant Delivery

Cut off is Noon/12:00pm

Standard Curb Side Pallet Delivery

Cut off is Noon/12:00pm

Next Day Curb Side Pallet Delivery

Cut off is Noon/12:00pm

Saturday Curb Side Pallet Delivery

Cut off is Noon/12:00pm

Northern Ireland Curb Side Pallet Delivery