Microsynodontis notata is a species of upside-down catfish endemic to Gabon where it occurs in the Ogowe River.

[1] M. notata is a small fish, reaching a maximum standard length of 5.4 centimeters (2.1 in).

[4] M. notata can be distinguished from other members of the genus Microsynodontis by examining the pectoral spine, the length of the caudal peduncle, the size of the eye, the shape of the caudal fin, and the colors on the body.

The caudal peduncle is long, making up about 10% to 12% of the standard length of the fish, whereas all other members of the genus, with the exception of M. christyi and M. laevigatus, have a shorter caudal peduncle, making up about 6% to 10% of the standard length.

M. notata can be distinguished from M. laevigatus by the serrated, rather than smooth, leading edge of the pectoral fin spines.