Cuckoo Catfish

Synodontis multipunctatus is one of the most celebrated African catfish in the hobby, famous for its remarkable reproductive strategy of brood parasitism. Native to the rocky shores of Lake Tanganyika, it times its spawning to coincide with mouthbrooding cichlids, slipping its eggs into the host's brood so the fry are raised unknowingly alongside — or at the expense of — the cichlid's own offspring.

In the aquarium it is a robust, active species that patrols the lower and middle water column throughout the day. Adults develop a handsome pattern of dark spots on a cream-grey body, with the intensity of spotting varying between individuals. It cohabits well with Tanganyikan cichlids such as Tropheus, Cyphotilapia and Julidochromis, sharing their preference for hard, alkaline water.

Keep in groups of three or more to encourage natural behaviour and reduce individual stress. Provide plenty of rocky caves and overhangs as retreat sites. A varied diet of sinking pellets, frozen invertebrates and vegetable matter keeps this species in peak condition.

Water: 23–27°C, pH 7.5–9.0, hard (GH 10–20, KH 5–15); replicate Tanganyika conditions with crushed coral or limestone substrate. Tank: 200 L minimum; rocky aquascape with many caves; powerful filtration and good circulation essential. Feeding: Sinking pellets, Hikari wafers, frozen bloodworm, brine shrimp, mysis; supplement with spirulina wafers. Breeding: Brood parasite of mouthbrooding cichlids; condition breeders well and introduce suitable host species; fry are free-swimming at ~3 weeks. Compatibility: Ideal with Tanganyikan cichlids; avoid very small tankmates that could be eaten; peaceful toward similarly sized fish.