Catfish – Cuckoo Catfish 3cm

Cuckoo Catfish – A Striking and Playful Aquarium Addition

The Cuckoo Catfish (Synodontis multipunctatus) is a captivating freshwater species native to Africa’s Lake Tanganyika. Known for its playful behaviour and unique breeding strategy, this catfish is a favourite among aquarists with cichlid tanks. Its active nature, spotted appearance, and hardy temperament make it an excellent choice for medium to large aquariums.

Size and Lifespan

This species grows to 15–20 cm (6–8 inches) and can live for 8–10 years with proper care. Maintaining clean water, providing a spacious tank, and offering a varied diet will ensure their health and longevity.

Ideal Tank Setup

A 200-litre tank or larger is recommended to provide ample swimming space for this active fish. To create a comfortable and enriching environment:

• Use a sandy or fine gravel substrate.
• Include plenty of caves, rocks, and driftwood for hiding and exploration.
• Consider adding hardy live plants for shade and decoration.

Water Parameters

• pH Range: 7.5–8.5
• Temperature: 24–28°C
• Filtration: Use strong filtration and maintain excellent water quality to mimic their natural habitat.

Compatible Tank Mates

The Cuckoo Catfish thrives in community tanks with African cichlids and other robust species. Suitable companions include:

• Malawi and Tanganyika cichlids
• Large barbs
• Other Synodontis catfish

Avoid small or delicate fish, as their active behaviour can be overwhelming. To ensure they feel secure, keep them in groups of three or more.

Feeding and Nutrition

This species is omnivorous and enjoys a varied diet. Suitable foods include:

• Sinking pellets
• Live or frozen treats like bloodworms or brine shrimp
• Blanched vegetables such as courgette or cucumber

Feed them once or twice daily and ensure enough food reaches the tank bottom. Their scavenging habits make them excellent at helping maintain a clean aquarium.

Breeding and Unique Behaviour

The Cuckoo Catfish is famous for its fascinating breeding method called brood parasitism. In the wild, it lays eggs alongside cichlid eggs, tricking the cichlids into caring for its young. To breed them in captivity:

1. Provide rocky areas or caves for spawning.
2. Pair them with compatible mouthbrooding cichlids.

Once the eggs hatch, feed the fry with finely crushed sinking pellets and live or frozen microfoods to support growth.

Species Overview

• Species: Synodontis multipunctatus
• Common Name: Cuckoo Catfish
• Origin: Lake Tanganyika, Africa
• Diet: Omnivorous
• pH Range: 7.5–8.5
• Temperature: 24–28°C
• Max Size: 15–20 cm (6–8 inches)
• Tank Size: Minimum 200 litres

FAQs About Cuckoo Catfish

1. How large do they grow?
   “They typically reach 15–20 cm, making them a good fit for larger aquariums.”
2. Are they suitable for cichlid tanks?
   “Yes, they thrive with robust species like Malawi and Tanganyika cichlids.”
3. What do they eat?
   “Provide sinking pellets, live or frozen foods, and blanched vegetables.”
4. Do they need to live in groups?
   “Yes, keeping them in groups of three or more ensures they feel secure and display natural behaviours.”
5. How do they breed?
   “Their unique brood parasitism involves using mouthbrooding cichlids to raise their fry.”

Add a Cuckoo Catfish to Your Aquarium Today!

Introduce the lively and fascinating Cuckoo Catfish to your tank. Their active personality and unique breeding behaviours make them an excellent choice for aquarists with cichlid setups. Order yours today and enjoy the charm of this remarkable fish!