Cuckoo Catfish Care Guide

The Cuckoo Catfish, also known as the Cuckoo Squeaker, is a fascinating aquatic species appreciated for its unique breeding habits and peaceful nature. Below you will find a comprehensive care guide to help you provide an ideal environment for this social fish.

Care Requirements

The Cuckoo Catfish thrives in water with a pH range of 6.0 to 8.0 and requires a temperature between 22°C and 27°C. It has a moderate level of hardiness and is considered an uncommon species in terms of rarity. To ensure a comfortable habitat, at least 10 liters of water per fish is recommended, and they should be kept in schools no smaller than six to maintain their social nature.

Tank Setup

These fish inhabit various levels of the aquarium, including the surface, mid-tank, and bottom. A well-decorated tank with rocks, driftwood, and caves will mimic their natural environment and provide them with areas to explore and hide. As peaceful and not territorial species, Cuckoo Catfish can be housed with other non-aggressive fish in a community tank.

Feeding

Cuckoo Catfish are omnivorous and enjoy a varied diet to maintain optimal health and vibrant coloration. Suitable food options include flakes, pellets, bloodworms, and brine shrimp. Additionally, they benefit from vegetable matter, algae wafers, and specialized color-enhancing foods. For occasional variety, you can offer frozen shrimp, tubifex worms, daphnia, micro worms, feeder fish, freeze-dried foods, and stick-on tablets.

Behavior and Compatibility

With an aggression level ranging from very peaceful to mostly peaceful, Cuckoo Catfish exhibit a social demeanor. Although they may become slightly more aggressive during breeding, their overall behavior remains manageable, making them suitable for mixed-species tanks provided compatible tank mates are chosen.

Maintenance and Affordability

Cuckoo Catfish require low maintenance and are moderately affordable, making them ideal for aquarists seeking a less demanding species. Despite their popularity, they are listed as Least Concern in terms of conservation status, ensuring ethical sustainability when acquired from reputable sources.

By addressing their environmental, dietary, and social needs, you can enjoy the companionship of the charming Cuckoo Catfish in your aquatic setup, contributing to a dynamic and visually appealing aquarium.