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The Dwarf Cuckoo Catfish is one of the most attractively colored, manageably sized, and most popular fish of its genus!

The Dwarf Cuckoo Catfish (Synodontis petricola) is a small and very popular species that is native to Africa's Lake Tanganyika. It has leopard-like spotting across its head and body as well as black fins with white margins, making for a very beautiful fish. This catfish is also known for its tendency to swim upside-down as well as its ability to squeak or croak when removed from the water. It is often very active, especially for a catfish, and it is compatible with a wide variety of fish.

The Dwarf Cuckoo Catfish is primarily nocturnal, but will often become active during daytime hours once established in an aquarium with plenty of driftwood, rockwork, and other hiding places. The Dwarf Cuckoo Catfish is generally peaceful and is compatible with most fish that are too large to be considered prey. It feeds on invertebrates in the wild, so it should not be kept with ornamental invertebrates in the aquarium. It will not bother plants. It is a small predator that produces a fair amount of waste and it is sensitive to declining water quality, so regular water changes and maintenance are a must.

The Dwarf Cuckoo Catfish is an unfussy eater that will accept most meaty live, frozen, and dry foods. Some vegetable matter is also necessary. A varied diet is essential for optimal health and coloration.

What We Like About This Fish:

Very colorful, peaceful, and hardy scavengar
Attains a very manageable adult size
Will not bother plants
Unique appearance as well as plenty of personality.
Compatible with many peaceful and aggressive fish species

RECOMMENDED TANK PARAMETERS:

Temperature: 75° - 82° F (24° - 28° C)
pH: 7.5 - 8.2, although this tank-bred dwarf form is much more flexible and can live well at a much lower pH.
KH: 10 - 35 dKH
Minimum tank size: 30 gallons

CARE GUIDELINES:

Diet: Mostly carnivorous. Will accept most live, frozen, and meaty foods of appropriate size. Vegetable matter is also necessary.
Social behavior: Somewhat social and more active in groups.
Origin: Tank-bred, but indigenous to Lake Tanganyika, Africa
Average adult size: 4 - 4.5 inches (10 - 11.4 cm)
Average purchase size: 1 - 2 inches (2.5 - 5 cm)

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Dwarf Cuckoo AKA Leopard Catfish (Synodontis petricola), Tank-Bred

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