🐟 Cuckoo Catfish (Synodontis multipunctatus)
🐟 Cuckoo Catfish (Synodontis multipunctatus)
African Rift Lake Catfish • Brood Parasite Species • Active Bottom Swimmer • Hardy Community Catfish
📋 The Cuckoo Catfish (Synodontis multipunctatus) is a fascinating African catfish famous for its unique breeding behavior and bold personality.
Native to Lake Tanganyika, this species is a true brood parasite species, laying its eggs among mouthbrooding cichlids.
It is an energetic active bottom swimmer, constantly exploring rockwork and open areas.
Highly adaptable and robust, it is a reliable hardy community catfish when housed with suitable tankmates.
💡 Highlights
✨ Cuckoo Breeding Behavior: Famous brood-parasitic spawning
⚪ Hardy Community Catfish: Tough and adaptable
🏊 Active Bottom Swimmer: Constantly on the move
🛡️ Armored Body: Thick skin and bony protection
📏 Fast-Growing Species: Reaches full size quickly
🧾 A Quick Look at the Cuckoo Catfish
📛 Common Name: Cuckoo Catfish
🔬 Scientific Name: Synodontis multipunctatus
👨👩👧 Family: Mochokidae
🌍 Origin: Lake Tanganyika (Africa)
📏 Max Size: 25–27 cm (≈ 10–11″)
💧 pH Range: 7.5–8.6
🌡️ Temperature Range: 24–28 °C (≈ 75–82 °F)
🧠 Care Level: Easy–Moderate
💖 Temperament: Semi-peaceful
🏠 Min Tank Size: 250 L (≈ 65 gallons)
📌 Tank Level: Bottom–Midwater
🧬 Captive Bred: ✅ Yes
🌿 Wild Caught: ❌ No
⏳ Lifespan: 10–15 years
🍽️ Diet: Omnivore
🐣 Reproduction: Brood parasite (with mouthbrooding cichlids)

















