Cuckoo Catfish (Synodontis multipunctatus) is an intermediate-level freshwater fish that needs at least 55 gallons and 75-82°F. A spotted, big-headed Tanganyikan catfish best known for laying its eggs among those of mouthbrooding cichlids. In a tank it does well with hard, alkaline water and cichlid tankmates, and needs caves to rest in during the day.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Synodontis multipunctatus |
|---|---|
| Family | Mochokidae |
| Origin | Lake Tanganyika, Africa |
| Adult size | 5-6 in |
| Minimum tank | 55 gallons |
| Temperature | 75-82°F |
| pH | 7.8-9.0 |
| Temperament | Peaceful to semi-aggressive, may eat small fish |
| Social behavior | Groups of 3+ in a larger tank, or solitary |
| Swim level | Bottom |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Diet | Omnivore: sinking pellets, frozen foods, vegetable matter |
| Typical lifespan | 10-15 years |
Quick tips
- Pair with Tanganyikan or Malawi cichlids, which like the same hard water.
- Provide caves; it is more active at night.
- Do not keep with tiny fish; the mouth is large.
San Diego water
Naturally suited to San Diego's hard, alkaline tap water once it is dechlorinated (the city uses chloramine, so use a conditioner that handles it). Learn the numbers in our San Diego tap water guide.
Before you buy
Make sure your tank is cycled (how to cycle a tank), check your numbers with the water testing guide, and use the compatibility guide to check tankmates. These are general ranges; individual fish and local water vary.
Find it at Pet Zone
Pet Zone Tropical Fish is a San Diego aquarium store with two locations. Stock changes daily, so call ahead if you are after a specific species or plant. Shop online at petzonesd.com.
4160 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 987-0309
Open daily, 10am-6pm
Aquascaping, planted tanks
4266 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 283-1812
Closed Monday; Tue-Fri 10:30am-6pm, Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm
Monster fish, koi