Cuckoo Synodontis

SKU

10086

Price

$55.00incl GST

or 4 interest free payments of $13.75incl GST with

Availability

Out of stock

The Synodontis petricola, commonly known as the Cuckoo Catfish or Dwarf Petricola, is a unique and striking freshwater catfish species native to the rocky waters of Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. It is prized by aquarists for its attractive spotted pattern, peaceful temperament, and fascinating behavior.

Quick Facts

  • Scientific Name: Synodontis petricola
  • Common Names: Cuckoo Catfish, Dwarf Petricola, Spotted Catfish
  • Family: Mochokidae
  • Origin: Lake Tanganyika, Africa
  • Size: 3.5–4.5 inches (9–11.5 cm)
  • Lifespan: 8–15 years with proper care
  • Temperament: Peaceful, social, and slightly shy
  • Diet: Omnivore (feeds on sinking pellets, algae wafers, live/frozen foods like bloodworms or brine shrimp)
  • Water Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
  • pH Level: 7.5–9.0 (alkaline water to mimic Lake Tanganyika)
  • Tank Size: Minimum 30 gallons for a small group
  • Tankmates: Ideal with other Tanganyikan cichlids, peaceful fish, or species that thrive in hard, alkaline water.

Appearance

The Synodontis petricola has an elegant, torpedo-shaped body adorned with a base color of gray to light brown and dotted with contrasting cream or white spots. Its fins are often translucent with a subtle spotted pattern. This fish is sometimes confused with Synodontis lucipinnis, a close relative, but they are separate species.

Behavior & Tank Setup

  • Social Fish: Best kept in groups of at least 3–5 individuals, as they are naturally schooling in the wild.
  • Tank Requirements:
    • Substrate: Sand or fine gravel to mimic their natural environment.
    • Décor: Rocks, caves, and driftwood provide shelter and hiding places.
    • Plants: Optional, but hardy species like Anubias or Vallisneria work well.
    • Current: Moderate water flow to replicate the lake's conditions.
  • Activity: These fish are nocturnal but may become active during the day in a peaceful environment.

Unique Behavior

The Synodontis petricola is known for its "cuckoo" breeding strategy in the wild. It lays eggs alongside the eggs of cichlids, tricking the cichlid into caring for its young. However, in aquariums, they can be bred separately without a host.

Diet

This species is omnivorous and has a varied diet:

  • High-quality sinking pellets or catfish wafers
  • Frozen or live foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia)
  • Occasional plant-based foods or blanched vegetables like zucchini

Fun Fact

Synodontis petricola can produce sounds by rubbing the bones of their pectoral fins against their shoulder girdle. This "squeaking" is thought to be a form of communication or a defense mechanism.

Would you like advice on tank mates, breeding, or other aspects of care?

 

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