True Cuckoo Squeaker Catfish Synodontis Multipunctatus 4cm

Overview

The Cuckoo Squeaker Catfish is a boldly spotted, active Synodontis with a pale body, dark blotches and a tall dorsal fin. It is famous for brood parasitism, laying its eggs among those of mouthbrooding cichlids, and it squeaks audibly when handled. Endemic to Lake Tanganyika, it suits Rift Lake cichlid aquariums and keepers wanting an outgoing, sociable catfish.

• Adult Size: Around 15 cm (6 in) in aquaria; females slightly larger
• Lifespan: 10–15 years

Origin

• Native to: Lake Tanganyika, East Africa (endemic)
• Habitat: Rocky caves and open water over sand

Feeding

• Diet: Omnivorous, greedy and unfussy
• Preferred Foods: Sinking pellets, bloodworm, brine shrimp, chopped prawn, blanched peas, cucumber
• Feeding Habits: Feed once daily after lights dim; they gorge readily, so ration portions and fast one day weekly

Tank Mates

• Best with: Tanganyikan and Malawi cichlids, other Synodontis, robust barbs
• Avoid: Fish small enough to swallow, slow eaters, timid species

Aggression & Behaviour

• Temperament: Peaceful and lively in groups; single fish become secretive
• Territoriality: Low; minor squabbles over caves

Experience Level

• Difficulty: Beginner to Intermediate
• Challenges: Needs hard alkaline water, strong filtration and a group of four or more

Water Parameters

• Water Type: Freshwater, hard and alkaline
• Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F)
• pH: 7.5–8.5
• Hardness: 15–35 dGH
• Flow: Moderate, well oxygenated
• Tank Size: Minimum 200 litres for a group of four; larger with cichlids

Final Notes

Buy at least four; they are far more confident and visible as a group and grow quickly on a good diet. Provide plenty of rock caves and a sandy substrate to protect the barbels. Breeding is the cuckoo strategy: eggs are laid during a mouthbrooder's spawning and the fry hatch first, so expect this in mixed cichlid tanks. Males have a taller, pointed dorsal fin. Many are captive bred and settle in quickly.