Species profile
Cuckoo Catfish
Synodontis multipunctatus
Semi aggressive
Moderate care
300 L minimum aquarium
18–27.5 cm adult size
Bottom
Minimum group: 3
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Large Tanganyikan Synodontis best kept with other robust hard-water fish. Provide sand, multiple caves, strong filtration and good oxygenation.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
24–27 °C
pH
7.8–8.8
GH
15–25 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Moderate
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Minimum group: 3
Tank zone
Bottom
Territory level
Low
Predation risk
Small fish
Bioload factor
2.8
Gregarious rather than a solitary 'cleanup fish'. Keep a small group where space allows. Tiny fish and invertebrates may be eaten, particularly at night.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
No
Jump risk
Yes
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
300 L
Minimum footprint
120 × 50 cm
Accepted scientific name
Synodontis multipunctatus
Alternative names
Cuckoo Synodontis, Cuckoo Squeaker, Synodontis Catfish
Native range
Endemic to Lake Tanganyika, East Africa.
Natural habitat
Rocky/sandy Tanganyikan habitats. Provide secure caves and shaded retreats with open areas for nocturnal foraging.
Diet & feeding
Feed sinking catfish pellets/wafers and varied frozen or fresh aquatic invertebrate foods; ensure food reaches the bottom after lights dim.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
External differences are subtle; mature females become fuller-bodied. Genital papilla examination is more reliable in experienced hands.
Breeding
Remarkable brood parasite that places eggs among spawning mouthbrooding cichlids; the host female may incubate the catfish eggs/young.