Synodontis Catfish

Synodontis multipunctatus

The Cuckoo Catfish — a fascinating African catfish that is a natural brood parasite, laying its eggs in cichlid mouths. Hardy, active, and social bottom-dweller.

Care Parameters

Adult size

12 cm

Min tank

100 L

Temperature

24–28°C

7.5–8.5

10–20 dGH

Diet

Omnivore

Temperament

Peaceful

Water zone

Bottom

Difficulty

Intermediate

Schooling

Groups of 3 or more.

Suitable Plants

Peacock Moss

A delicate aquarium moss with fine, feathery fronds that create a soft, flowing carpet. Attaches easily to hardscape and tolerates a wide range of conditions.

Anacharis

Care profile for Anacharis: low light, none CO₂, beginner difficulty.

Staurogyne repens

Care profile for Staurogyne repens: medium light, low CO₂, beginner difficulty.

Glossostigma

One of the smallest aquarium plants, forming a dense carpet of tiny green leaves. Requires high light and CO2 to stay compact; Without it, stems stretch upward.

Alternanthera reineckii

Care profile for Alternanthera reineckii: medium-high light, medium CO₂, intermediate difficulty.

Compatible Invertebrates

Ghost Shrimp

A see-through, feather-light scavenger sold by the handful. Tough across 3-15 dGH and a wide temperature band. Beware mislabeled tankmates: true Ghost Shrimp is Palaemon paludosus, while the larger, more predatory Macrobrachium species are often sold under the same name.

Golden Back Yellow Shrimp

A bright yellow color morph of Neocaridina davidi with a distinctive golden back stripe. Hardy, prolific breeder, and excellent algae consumer for planted tanks.

Vampire Shrimp

A large, impressive freshwater shrimp with fan-like appendages used to filter feed from the current. Can grow up to 15 cm and requires strong water flow and clean, well-oxygenated water.

Blue Bolt Shrimp

A striking blue color morph of Caridina cantonensis. Deep blue body with white banding. Extremely sensitive to water parameters — requires very soft, acidic water.