Cuckoo Catfish

Synodontis multipunctatus

Cuckoo Catfish is a peaceful bottom-to-middle swimmer. Keep in a school of 5+.

PeacefulBottom to middle swimmerKeep in a school of 5+Beginner – Intermediate

Save this fish or add it directly to one of your aquariums.

Quick facts

Adult size
≤ 10.8" (≤ 27.5 cm)
Aquarium size
53 US gal (200 L) or larger / ≥ 47.2" (≥ 120 cm) minimum length
Care level
Beginner – Intermediate
Temperament
Peaceful
Swimming zone
Bottom to middle swimmer
Temperature
73–81°F (23–27°C)
pH
7.5–8.5
GH
15–35 dGH
Diet
Omnivore
Lifespan
up to 15 years
Group behavior
Keep in a school of 5+

Care requirements

Care level: Beginner – Intermediate.

Lifespan: up to 15 years.

Aquarium size and space needs

Minimum aquarium size: 53 US gal (200 L) or larger / ≥ 47.2" (≥ 120 cm) minimum length. Plan the layout and stocking within that limit.

Water parameters

Suitable water: temperature 23–27 °C, pH 7.5–8.5, GH 15–35 dGH.

Temperament and compatibility

Cuckoo Catfish is peaceful and suits calm community fish.

Keep in a school of 5+.

Swimming zone and behavior

This fish uses the lower to middle part of the aquarium, so leave enough open substrate area for movement and feeding. Keep in a school of 5+.

Feeding

As an omnivore, Cuckoo Catfish should receive a varied diet rather than one repeated food type.

Make sure food reaches the substrate before faster fish take it.

Before adding this fish

  • Plan for an aquarium of 53 US gal (200 L) or larger / ≥ 47.2" (≥ 120 cm) minimum length.
  • Avoid aggressive or highly competitive fish.
  • Keep in a school of 5+.
  • Offer a varied diet suitable for an omnivorous bottom-dwelling fish.

Similar fish profiles

Use these profiles to compare fish with similar care level, size, temperature range, or swimming behavior.

African Glass Catfish Pareutropius debauwi Similar care level Same temperament Bottom dweller Intermediate – Advanced ≤ 3.9" (≤ 10 cm) 72–81°F (22–27°C) Ajamaru Rainbowfish Melanotaenia ajamaruensis Similar care level Same temperament Same swimming zone Beginner – Intermediate ≤ 3.9" (≤ 10 cm) 81–86°F (27–30°C) Asian Bumblebee Catfish Pseudomystus siamensis Similar care level Same temperament Bottom dweller Beginner – Intermediate ≤ 5.9" (≤ 15 cm) 68–79°F (20–26°C) Barito Loach Kapuasia falaris Similar care level Same temperament Bottom dweller Beginner – Intermediate ≤ 3.1" (≤ 8 cm) 72–79°F (22–26°C) Barred Danio Devario pathirana Similar care level Same temperament Same swimming zone Beginner – Intermediate ≤ 3.1" (≤ 8 cm) 68–79°F (20–26°C) Bengal Loach Botia dario Similar care level Same temperament Bottom dweller Intermediate ≤ 5.9" (≤ 15 cm) 73–81°F (23–27°C)

FAQ

How large does Cuckoo Catfish get?

Cuckoo Catfish reaches ≤ 10.8" (≤ 27.5 cm). Allow for adult swimming space, filtration, and compatible companions.

What aquarium size does Cuckoo Catfish need?

Use an aquarium of at least 53 US gal (200 L) or larger / ≥ 47.2" (≥ 120 cm) minimum length.

Is Cuckoo Catfish peaceful?

Yes. Cuckoo Catfish is recorded as peaceful and is best planned with calm community fish that do not harass it or dominate the feeding area.

What temperature is suitable for Cuckoo Catfish?

Keep it between 23 to 27 °C.

Should Cuckoo Catfish be kept alone or in a group?

Cuckoo Catfish: Keep in a school of 5+.

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