Petricola Synodontis / Cuckoo Catfish

Petricola Synodontis, also known as the Cuckoo Catfish, is a popular species of catfish that is commonly kept in the aquarium hobby. These fish are part of the Mochokidae family, a family of catfish native to Africa, and they belong to the Synodontis genus, which includes many species of catfish.

Petricola Synodontis has a distinctive appearance. They are relatively small catfish, usually growing to about 4 to 5 inches (10 to 13 cm) in length. They have a slender body with a pattern of vertical black stripes on a light gray to white background. The stripes give them a striking and attractive appearance.

These catfish are native to the freshwater rivers and streams of Africa, particularly in regions such as Lake Tanganyika, Lake Malawi, and the Congo River Basin. In their natural habitat, they are often found in rocky areas and crevices along the bottom of the water.

Petricola Synodontis is a bottom-dwelling catfish species. They are generally peaceful and social when kept in groups. They are known for their interesting behavior, including their habit of hiding in crevices and caves during the day and becoming more active at night.

In the wild, Petricola Synodontis are omnivores, feeding on a variety of food sources such as small invertebrates, algae, and detritus. In aquariums, they can be fed a balanced diet consisting of high-quality sinking pellets, live or frozen foods, and occasional vegetable matter.

When kept as aquarium fish, Petricola Synodontis require a tank with plenty of hiding spots, such as caves or PVC pipes, as they are naturally secretive and like to have places to retreat to. They thrive in water with stable parameters and slightly alkaline conditions. Water temperature should be kept within the range of 75-82°F (24-28°C).

Compatibility: These catfish are generally peaceful and can be kept with other non-aggressive fish species that are not too large or overly territorial. However, they are social and do best when kept in small groups of three or more. Make sure to choose tankmates that are compatible in terms of water conditions and behavior.

It’s important for aquarium enthusiasts to research and understand the specific care requirements and compatibility of Petricola Synodontis before adding them to their aquariums. Proper care will help ensure the health and well-being of these unique and attractive catfish.