Zebra Barfin Catfish Synodontis Ornatipinnis 4cm

Image for illustration purposes only. Exact colours, patterns, and size may vary between individuals.

£22.00

Delivered alive, guaranteed

Live fish delivery is £20 per order, delivered Thursday, Friday or Saturday, arriving before 1:00pm on the day you choose at checkout. Packed by aquatic specialists and shipped overnight with a dedicated livestock courier, every fish is covered by our Live Arrival Guarantee with automatic refunds. See How Live Fish Delivery Works for full details.

When will my fish arrive?

Order placedDelivery day
Up to Monday 11:00amThursday (that week)
Monday after 11:00am – Tuesday 11:00amFriday (that week)
Tuesday after 11:00am – Wednesday 11:00amSaturday (that week)
Wednesday after 11:00am – Sunday (any time)Thursday (following week)

Zebra Barfin Catfish Synodontis Ornatipinnis 4cm Overview: The Zebra Barfin Catfish is a peaceful and somewhat shy species, growing to an average size of about 6 inches (15 cm) in captivity. It's known for its unique barbels and striking striped pattern, which makes it a visually appealing choice for aquarium enthusiasts. Origin: Native to the Congo River Basin in Africa, the Zebra Barfin Catfish is accustomed to a habitat with plenty of hiding spots provided by rocks, driftwood, and dense vegetation. It prefers soft, slightly acidic to neutral water in its natural environment. Feeding: This species is omnivorous and not particularly fussy about its diet. In the aquarium, it will accept a wide range of foods, including sinking pellets, flakes, frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia. A varied diet will ensure optimal health and coloration. Tank Mates: The Zebra Barfin Catfish is generally peaceful and can be housed with a wide variety of tank mates. Ideal companions include other similarly sized and tempered species that are not overly aggressive. Small, peaceful schooling fish, as well as other bottom dwellers that do not compete aggressively for food, make suitable tank mates. Aggression: This species exhibits low levels of aggression and is more likely to be timid, especially when newly introduced to a tank. It is nocturnal, spending most of the day hiding and becoming more active at night. Experience Level: Due to its specific habitat requirements and somewhat shy nature, the Zebra Barfin Catfish is best suited for aquarists with some experience. Keeping this species thriving requires attention to tank setup, water quality, and diet. Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 72-79°F (22-26°C)
  • pH: 6.0-7.5
  • Hardness: 4-15 dGH
  • It's essential to maintain clean and well-oxygenated water, with regular water changes to keep nitrate levels low.
In summary, the Zebra Barfin Catfish (Synodontis Ornatipinnis) is a fascinating and beautiful species that requires a bit of care and attention but rewards the aquarist with its striking appearance and interesting behavior. Its requirements for specific water conditions and a well-structured tank make it a rewarding challenge for the moderately experienced fish keeper.

Please Note

The livestock that is sold on our online site is not held in store at our Birchwood Aquatic Centre shop. Species sold at the Birchwood Aquatic Centre physical store may differ from ones available to order to your door.

Frequently Asked Questions

In insulated boxes designed for live transport, packed by aquatic specialists,
overnight with a licensed live-animal courier, arriving before 1pm.

It is covered by our Live Arrival Guarantee.
Photograph it within 4 hours of delivery, email info@birchwoodaquaticcentre.co.uk with your order number, and the refund is processed automatically. The cover continues for 7 days after arrival.


Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday. You pick your day at checkout; please choose a day someone is home.

Yes. One basket, one checkout; the fish arrive with the specialist courier and the rest of your order ships as normal.

We can deliver to UK mainland only for live fish.

Follow the five-minute acclimatisation steps in our When Your Fish Arrive guide: float the bags, add tank water gradually, net the fish in, lights low, feed tomorrow.