Cuckoo Catfish

Synodontis multipunctatus

A spotted Tanganyikan catfish famous for tricking mouthbrooding cichlids into raising its young.

Water

Freshwater

Temperature

75–82°F

pH

7.8–9

Hardness

10–25 dGH

Max size

6 in

Min tank

50 gal

Temperament

Semi-aggressive

Social

Social (3+)

Swim level

Bottom

Diet

Carnivore

Care level

Intermediate

Lifespan

10-15 years

Breeding

Brood parasite

Suitability

Common

Origin

Lake Tanganyika (Africa)

The only known fish brood parasite — it slips its eggs in among a spawning cichlid's, which then mouthbroods the catfish fry. Best in hard, alkaline African cichlid tanks. Keep a group and provide rocky cover.