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Polypterus senegalus - Tropical Fish for Sale UK
£18.26£20.99
A brood-parasitic catfish that tricks cichlids into raising its young. Moderate care level, perfect for hobbyist fishkeepers. Available with fast UK delivery.
Adult size is the maximum length this species reaches at full maturity (scientific sources). The livestock you receive will be younger and smaller — pick a size variant above for the actual shipping size. Photos are AI-enhanced, so the animal may show subtle colour or marking differences.
Synodontis multip. sp. black
A brood-parasitic catfish that tricks cichlids into raising its young. Moderate care level, perfect for hobbyist fishkeepers. Available with fast UK delivery.
Adult size is the maximum length this species reaches at full maturity (scientific sources). The livestock you receive will be younger and smaller — pick a size variant above for the actual shipping size. Photos are AI-enhanced, so the animal may show subtle colour or marking differences.
Maintain these water conditions for optimal health and vibrant colors
The Cuckoo Catfish (Synodontis multipunctatus) is a a brood-parasitic catfish that tricks cichlids into raising its young. Originating from Lake Tanganyika, East Africa, this species brings natural beauty and character to any home aquarium. Suitable for aquarists with some experience, this species rewards proper care with vibrant health and colour.
| Scientific Name | Synodontis multipunctatus |
| Family | Mochokidae |
| Origin | Lake Tanganyika, East Africa |
| Care Level | Moderate |
| Temperament | Semi-Aggressive |
| Adult Size | 15.0 cm |
| Minimum Tank Size | 200 litres |
| Temperature | 24.0–27.0°C |
| pH Range | 7.5–9.0 |
| Hardness | 10–25 dGH |
| Diet | Omnivore; sinking pellets, frozen foods, live foods |
| Lifespan | 15 years |
| Tank Region | Bottom |
Synodontis multipunctatus belongs to the family Mochokidae. This species is native to Lake Tanganyika, East Africa, where it inhabits river beds and slow-moving tributaries with sandy or muddy substrates.
A minimum tank size of 200 litres is recommended (keep in groups of 3+). Maintain water temperature between 24.0–27.0°C with a pH of 7.5–9.0 and hardness of 10–25 dGH. Famous brood parasite: sneaks eggs among mouthbrooding cichlid eggs. Requires hard, alkaline Tanganyikan water. Social; keep in groups of 3+.
Omnivore; sinking pellets, frozen foods, live foods. Feed small portions 1–2 times daily, offering only as much as they can consume within a few minutes. A varied diet promotes optimal health and vibrant colouration.
Good companions include Tanganyikan cichlids, Other Synodontis. Avoid housing with Soft-water fish, Small fish. This species has a semi-aggressive temperament and primarily occupies the bottom region of the tank.
At Tropical Fish Co, we carefully select and ship healthy, vibrant fish directly to your door across the UK. Every Cuckoo Catfish is hand-picked for quality and health. We offer expert care advice, competitive prices, and reliable tracked UK delivery to ensure your new fish arrives safely and settles in quickly.
24–28°C · pH 6.5–7.5 · 2000L
24–28°C · pH 5.5–7 · 60L
24–28°C · pH 7.5–8.5 · 400L
22–26°C · pH 6–7.5 · 150L
24–28°C · pH 7.5–8.5 · 500L
22–26°C · pH 6–7.5 · 30L
24–28°C · pH 7.5–8.5 · 150L
24–28°C · pH 7.5–8.5 · 200L
18–25°C · pH 6–8 · 100L
18–28°C · pH 6.5–8 · 20L
24–27°C · pH 7.5–8.8 · 150L
22–26°C · pH 6–7.5 · 60L