Cuckoo Catfish
Synodontis petricola
Beginner
Freshwater
Peaceful but territorial. Often swims upside down. Shy, prefers hiding places. Nocturnal.
Mochokidae
Max Size
13.0 cm (5.1")
Min Tank
200 L (53 gal)
Min Group
5+
Diet
Omnivore - balanced diet
Water Parameters
Temperature
24.0-26.0°C
75-79°F
pH
8.0-9.0
Hardness (dGH)
10.0-13.0
Min Tank Size
200 L
53 gal
About
Light body with small black spots. Prominent barbels. Head spots smaller than those on the body.
Behavior & Temperament
Peaceful but territorial. Often swims upside down. Shy, prefers hiding places. Nocturnal.
Feeding
Omnivore - balanced diet
Breeding
Oviparous. Reproductive parasite of cichlids. Unique method: the female eats cichlid eggs and replaces them with her own.
Compatibility
Territorial, may be aggressive with conspecifics
Quick Summary
| Scientific Name | Synodontis petricola |
|---|---|
| Family | Mochokidae |
| Category | Fish |
| Care Level | Beginner |
| Water Type | Freshwater |
| Max Size | 13.0 cm (5.1") |
| Min Tank | 200 L (53 gal) |
| Min Group | 5+ |
| Diet | Omnivore - balanced diet |
| Temperament | Peaceful but territorial. Often swims upside down. Shy, prefers hiding places. Nocturnal. |
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