Cuckoo Catifsh - Synodontis petricola

Cuckoo Catfish (Synodontis petricola)

The Cuckoo Catfish is one of the most attractively colored and manageable species of its genus. Native to Africa's Lake Tanganyika, this highly popular catfish features leopard-like spotting across its head and body, along with black fins edged in white, giving it a striking appearance. Known for its playful behavior, it often swims upside-down and can even produce a croaking or squeaking sound when removed from water.

Behavior and Tank Setup

The Cuckoo Catfish is primarily nocturnal but will become more active during the day once established in a well-structured aquarium with plenty of driftwood, rockwork, and hiding spots. It is generally peaceful and compatible with a wide range of tankmates, provided they are too large to be considered prey. While it will not harm plants, it does feed on invertebrates in the wild, so it should not be kept with ornamental shrimp or snails. Due to its high metabolism and waste production, regular water changes and maintenance are essential for optimal health.

Diet

This species is an unfussy eater that will readily accept most live, frozen, and dry meaty foods. Some vegetable matter is also necessary to ensure a balanced diet and vibrant coloration.

Why Choose the Cuckoo Catfish?

• Beautiful, bold markings and unique swimming behavior
• Peaceful and hardy scavenger
• Grows to a manageable adult size
• Compatible with many peaceful and semi-aggressive species
• Full of personality and activity

Recommended Tank Parameters

• Temperature: 75° - 82°F (24° - 28°C)
• pH: 7.5 - 8.2 (Tank-bred specimens can adapt to lower pH)
• KH: 10 - 35 dKH
• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons

Care Guidelines

• Diet: Mostly carnivorous; accepts live, frozen, and meaty foods, with some vegetable matter required
• Social Behavior: Somewhat social and more active in groups
• Origin: Tank-bred, originally from Lake Tanganyika, Africa
• Adult Size: 4 - 4.5 inches (10 - 11.4 cm)
• Purchase Size: 1 - 2 inches (2.5 - 5 cm)

Add this stunning and lively catfish to your aquarium today – available now at Top Fin Aquatics!