Family: Mochokidae
Distribution: Synodontis multipunctatus, commonly known as Cuckoo Catfish, is a freshwater species endemic to Lake Tanganyika, Africa. It can be found at depths of up to 65 metres.
PH: 8.0 – 9.0
Temperature: 21°C – 28C (70 – 82F)
Hardness: 8 – 18 dH
Description: Synodontis multipunctatus can reach a maximum length of around 15 cm in an aquarium. This attractive catfish has an elongated body and a beige-grey colouration. It has a white belly and large black spots that cover its entire body; its head is also dotted with spots. Difficult to sex, females have a round papilla; males have a more triangular shape and are generally longer.
Diet: Synodontis multipunctatus can be given sinking pellets and a quality flake; you should give it the occasional treat of bloodworm and brine shrimp.
Breeding: The Cuckoo Catfish will wait for a pair of cichlid mouthbrooders to spawn before the female drops her small eggs among the cichlid’s eggs. The female cichlid will pick up the Cuckoo Catfish’s eggs, believing they are in fact hers, and mouthbroods them until they hatch in her mouth. It’s a lazy but effective method of breeding.
Comments: A group of adult Synodontis multipunctatus should be kept in a tank of at least 20 – 30 gallons. Your tank should have plenty of open swimming areas, some rockwork and several hiding spaces. You should use a gravel or sandy substrate and ensure your water is nitrate-free and very clean. This bottom-dwelling species is probably more suitable for hobbyists with experience.
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Recommended Compatible Species: Synodontis multipunctatus is a peaceful species but can become aggressive within its own species if kept in small groups. You might like to keep it with mouthbrooding cichlids from Lake Malawi, Lake Tanganyika and Lake Victoria, as well as with livebearers and Rainbowfish.
