. Cuckoo Synodontis Tropical Fish Learn all about the Cuckoo Synodontis's feeding habits and food types, its behaviour, its origins, its natural habitats, is it male or female, breeding advice and information, suitable tank mates, its sizing and growth range, minimum tank size, water PH and more. Siamese Algae Eater – Care, Feeding, Tank Mates &. Aquarium Synodontis Catfish tank care is easy. This African Catfish is commonly used as a cleaner in African Cichlid tanks. Food and Diet. The Asian Bumblebee Catfish is generally peaceful, although it can be territorial with other bottom dwellers. 5-8. A 50-gallon or larger aquarium with a stable temperature and plenty of rocks and plants provides a suitable environment. Compatibility: 4 out of 5. Synodontis Catfish. Maintain a temperature between 75°F and 82°F (24°C to 28°C) and a pH level around neutral (6. Ensure that you avoid tank mates that are less aggressive, small, and docile fish as they can hardly survive in the same aquarium with African Cichlids. While not particularly aggressive with others, the Synodontis catfish can mistake smaller fish for food. The visuals above are not mine, all the credits go to their respective owners. An excellent choice would be the Synodontis catfish species, as they won’t compete. Care Level: Diet & Feeding: Omnivore, sinking pellets, flakes, and frozen/live food. 5. Synodontis Catfish – Care, Types, Tank Mates & Full Details! April 10, 2020. Tank Mates. Synodontis Catfish – Care, Types, Tank Mates & Full Details! April 10, 2020. The very best tank mates for Synodontis Petricola are Gourami Fish, Giant-sized Barbs, Loaches, Tetras, Rainbowfish, Bigger Danios, Pleco fish, and different catfish. Tetra Fish. In this post, we’ll examine which fish make for good companions and offer guidance on how best to house your catfish with them. 5 and 7. . The Electric Blue Acara is commonly found in pet shops and online stores catering to aquarium enthusiasts. Home, Sweet Home: Choosing the Right Tank Size 🏠. But remember, prices can vary based on location and market trends. Compatibility. Synodontis Catfish – Care, Types, Tank Mates & Full Details! April 10, 2020. They do well with a water pH of 7. I wanted to do a group of 6-8 Synodontis multipunctatus and then some sort of cichlid that would be a good fit for. Upside-down catfish are small fish that reach an adult size of 3. Synodontis Catfish (Synodontis eupterus) Native to Africa, Synodontis Catfish are large, peaceful bottom dwellers. Guppy fish are among the most popular and colorful choices for a community tank. Other planting is beneficial but not essential. Synodontis catfish tank mates. Synodontis eupterus is an upside-down species. jerdoni include Synodontis catfish, barbs, larger tetras, larger danio species, swordtails, rainbowfish, and others that are too large to eat it. Rate My Fish Tank: Freshwater Compatibility Chart ;Synodontis catfish; Texas cichlid; Tinfoil barbs. Float the bag: Float the sealed bag containing the fish in the tank for 15-20 minutes. Just be aware that they do not get along with fast-moving, long-finned species such as Mollies and Danios. It is a basic reversal of the colour scheme many other species use for the same purpose. For a 30-gallon tank, you can keep a maximum of three African cichlids. Minimum Tank Size: 50 gallons (189 liters) for 3: Adult Size: 4 - 8 inches (10 - 20 cm). The recommended tank size for a full-grown bumblebee catfish is 20 gallons. The pricing can range from $10 to $30 per fish, depending on size and age. Your iridescent will more likely eat them. pH: 6. Synodontis catfish; Large Plecostomus catfish; Clown Loaches; How To Breed. Jewel cichlid care is something that revolves mostly around your ability to manage their aggressive tendencies. Blue Orchid Peacock cichlids. Synodontis is a genus of upside-down catfishes. Compatible With: Paradise Fish. House the Synodontis Schoutedeni Catfish in a well-filtered aquarium of at least 50 gallons in size. As with most fish, there are a number of factors that can impact their lifespan. They share similar water conditions and will coexist peacefully with Frontosa Cichlids. Examples of tank mates compatible with Peacock Cichlids include Plecos, Botia Loaches, Red Eye Tetras, and Synodontis Catfish. 4. They are great for medium to large-size aquarium setups. Synodontis Catfish Care Sheet. Any tank mates should be quick enough to get out of the way of the sharp spines on their pectoral fins. Zebra cichlids. 8 inches) in length when fully mature but should not be housed with larger tank mates. ago. It's my. Synodontis eupterus. Here are some good tank mates for six-banded distichodus: Congo Tetra; Firemouth Cichlid; Synodontis Catfish; Clown Loach; Weather Loach; Glass Catfish; Rope Fish; Breeding. The aquarium will be big enough to give every fish swimming room without feeling cramped. Family: Mochokidae. I have a spare 70L tank which i hope to transfer the fry and the adults into to see how they get on. Synodontis catfish size. It is better to keep a group of upside-down catfish together, with the average group size being between 4 and 6. It’s important to choose tank mates carefully and to avoid any sudden changes in the tank. These bottom-dwelling fish can help keep the tank clean while occupying a different area of the aquarium, reducing territorial disputes. Catfish: Many catfish species make suitable tank mates for Jack Dempsey Fish, particularly those that are large and robust, such as Plecostomus, Synodontis, and Pictus Catfish. Giant Danio (Devario. Siamese Algae Eater – Care, Feeding, Tank Mates & Full Details! February 9, 2019. (Last Updated On: April 15, 2021) Cuckoo catfish, or the pygmy leopard catfish, scientific name Synodontis multipunctatus is a species broadly available to African countries, such as Burundi, Zambia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and. Origin: Bolivia, Paraquay, Brazil, Peru, Africa. 3 Same Species Tanks 1. They are peaceful fish. Top compatible tank mates for African Cichlids include African Catfish, Red Rainbow Fish, Flying Fox Fish, Leopard Bushfish, etc. Cuckoo Catfish – Care | Size | Tank Mates | Lifespan | Breeding. Cramped aquariums, aggressive tank mates, dirty water and poor diets all take their toll on these sensitive catfish and reduce their lifespans. These fish inhabit various habitats, such as clear and murky waters, rocky and sandy bottoms, and fast and slow-moving currents. The average lifespan of an upside-down catfish is 5 to 10 years. Many aquarium owners like to house. A complete guide to caring for the pictus catfish including diet and tank mates. What do fishkeepers have to say:Oh give me the stren. You can also house them with small, peaceful livebearers like mollies, guppies, and platys. Upside Down Catfish: Tank Mates. The Zebra Maylandia Cichlid is a vivacious fish adding lively color vibrancy to your aquarium. Synodontis Catfish – Care, Types, Tank Mates & Full Details! April 10, 2020. Tank Mates. The most common type of. When it comes to choosing tank mates, opt for peaceful species that aren’t small enough to be perceived as food. Avoid similar-looking species as well as larger, more aggressive tank mates. The Cuckoo Catfish, also known by its scientific name Synodontis multipunctatus, is a catfish native to the Lake Tanganyika in Africa. When it comes to selecting tank mates for your Elephant Nose Fish, it’s best to stick with other peaceful species. 170 Litres (45 US G. They can bully your fish, and thus, your iridescent can get scared. Apr 27, 2018. This species occurs throughout West Africa from. Native to Lake Malawi, they are carnivorous, preferring a diet of small invertebrates. Other common peacock cichlid colors include the albino, yellow, red, orange, blue, pink, and purple. Unlike many other catfish, the Featherfin Squeaker is not a nocturnal fish and is most active during the day. Temperature: 70-82°F (21-28°C) pH: 6. The total liquid waste remains in the water permanently. Their meal preferences change considerably throughout the day. All Aquatic Arts brand plants and animals come with a 100% live arrival guarantee, plus free email support! The Dwarf Cuckoo Catfish is one of the most attractively colored, manageably sized, and most popular fish of its genus! On sale today for $ 14. . Select tank mates of a similar size or slightly smaller than the frontosa cichlids. The tank’s temperature should vary between 75°F and 85°F with a pH of 6. multipunctatus aka "cuckoo catfish". What are their tank mates in the 75 at the moment? They are both big bruisers so any tank mate combos are going to be a challenge but it is possible. Many fish are shoaling fish, best kept in schools of 10 or more. Length: 8 inches Water: 72-79°F, pH: 6. Suitable tank mates include Corydoras, small Tetras, and non-predatory invertebrates like shrimps and snails. Synodontis Angelicus is believed to be native to the freshwater rivers and lakes of West Africa, specifically in the Congo River basin. Conclusion. Other good choices for cichlid tank mates are very speedy, aggressive, large fish. The upside-down catfish very seldom spawns in a tank, that’s why to trigger the spawning process hormones injections are used. Of course, you can add them with suitable tank mates in a community tank, such as Aulonocara species, Synodontis Catfish, and other mildly-aggressive Haps. Aquarium Requirements Synodontis come from a range of water conditions in nature, with some originating from the hard water African lakes whilst others may live in softer,. The body of this species is elongated and narrow, and it can reach a length of 4 inches. Finally, flagtail catfish are very sensitive to stress. Adults attain as much as 130 cm (4. Choose tankmates carefully for this small species. The Forgotten Africans. Synodontis eupterus is an upside-down species. If it is small, then even the calmest individuals can be aggressive. Synodontis Catfish – Care, Types, Tank Mates & Full Details! April 10, 2020. Siamese Algae Eater – Care,. Water Conditions. Other Large Cichlids. Water Parameters Though there are over 120 different species of Synodontis catfish, the majority of them make great tank mates for cichlids. Having Yellow Tail Acei Cichlids as tank mates will not only add a pop of color to your aquarium but also offer an enjoyable and social environment for your fish. Tank mates for a synodontis catfish? Wyvlen Jul 2, 2019 Forums Advanced Aquaria Discussion Forum Bottom Dwellers Catfish Wyvlen Exodon MFK Member Nov. Avoid anything that they can scoop up and swallow. Avoid keeping venustus cichlids with small, timid fish or species that may nip at their fins. 15. So for a school of 4 catfish you should count on a tank that is at least 50 gallons. If tank mates are involved, make sure the aquarium is large enough to meet the behavioral needs of your Delhezi Bichir and your other fish!A Synodontis Catfish – depending on the species you choose – would be a suitable tankmate for most fish on this list but not all of them together at one time in the same tank. Origin : Tank-bred, but indigenous to Lake Tanganyika, Africa. The perfect tank size for Upside Down Catfish is approximately 30 gallons. They are called squeakers because they produce a squeaking sound as a warning to both predators and competitors during spawning time. Breeding. Iridescent Shark Lifespan. Not all tank mates you'll see ended up living in peace with each other long term:55 gallons. Dim (can be brighter if diffused by plants). 5 to 8. Their body is dark brown with a few isolated small spots, adults have a dorsal fin in which each ray extends into long filaments that looks like a feather, giving it the common. The first step is to set up a breeding tank. Tank Mates. Some suitable tank mates for a synodontis catfish include larger cichlids, larger tetras, barbs, and other peaceful community fish. On top of differing water requirements, the aggression of the Cichlids is practically nonstop. 6 liters) is recommended for a single Synodontis catfish, and you should add an additional 10 gallons (38 liters) of tank space for each additional Synodontis you plan to keep. Therefore, it’s crucial to choose suitable tank mates for yellow lab cichlids. Tank Mates. Do not forget to make the water conditions suitable for them to thrive side by side. #3. Synodontis are the dominant African catfish in the aquarium trade, because of their attractive colour patterns and generally peaceful nature, making them suitable tank mates for a community tank consisting of medium to large-sized fish. I recommended Synodontis Catfish because they. 0) and a temperature of 80°F (26-27°C). They hail from the same East African Lake Malawi, allowing for similar water conditions and diet. When choosing other Cichlids, it is better to choose other Madagascar Cichlids as their tank mates. If they don’t have the same requirements then the chances are one of the fish will die. no filter can remove it. Tank mates for African Cichlids include African Butterfly Cichlid, African Red-Eyed Tetra, Clown Loaches, Flying Fox Fish, Giant Danios, Leopard Bushfish, Murray River Rainbowfish, Plecos, Pictus Catfish, Red-Spotted. As Johanni Cichlids mature, they can become more territorial. by sidguppy » Mon Mar 23, 2009 10:02 am. Synodontis Catfish can eat any sort of meal. Synodontis catfish tank size. Therefore, suitable tank mates include species that are not small enough to be considered prey but also not large or aggressive enough to threaten the leaf fish. They can reach up to 30 cm. They are members of the African catfish family Mochokidae which contains about 150 different species in 10 genera. Siamese Algae Eater – Care, Feeding, Tank Mates & Full Details! February. Cons of keeping with Auratus Cichlid: Availability & Pricing of Electric Blue Acara. Avoid housing Jewel Cichlids with smaller, slow-moving, or timid fish, as they. Given. Their meal preferences change considerably throughout the day. Native to the vast and sprawling rivers of Southeast Asia, the iridescent shark is known by many names, a lot of which include “shark”, yet this is something of a misnomer, as they are, in fact, catfish. These are quite large fish, and they do need plenty of swimming space, so the minimum tank size you’ll need is 30 gallons. The tank mates of the angelfish should feel great in soft water. There are many factors to consider when choosing tank mates for your Angelfish. Tank set up. Named for the round and shiny resemblance to a coin, the Silver Dollar Fish makes a great addition to just about any tank. Water quality is crucial to prevent these illnesses from taking over. Pictus catfish are generally peaceful and sociable fish, making. Siamese Algae Eater. Since most dwarf shrimp don’t exceed 1-inch in size and they have specific tank parameter needs, especially Caridinas, they are not a great pick for many tanks. Not all catfish genus originate from South America, a group called the Synodontis Catfish actually originate from the rivers of Africa. This is rather long when you compare them to other popular aquarium catfish like the Otocinclus. Siamese Algae Eater – Care, Feeding, Tank Mates & Full Details! February 9, 2019. The ones I have pretty much stay hidden all the time unless there is food around. Sailfin Pleco. These catfish are often put in African cichlid tanks. Clown loach. Common name: Lace catfish. Keep in mind that these fish are active and enjoy swimming, so the bigger the tank, the better. Tank Size. Use our fish community creator tool to plan your tank set up and ensure. It is, therefore, advisable to provide foods that stimulate the natural desire for food. Lets take a look at some of the most suitable tank mates for Synodontis catfish. The Striped Raphael Catfish have a cylindrical, arrow-shaped body with a flattened belly. Being peaceful creatures, Electric Blue Acaras can coexist with a variety of tank mates. It’s crucial to provide a spacious tank with plenty of hiding spots, plants, and decorations to create territories and alleviate aggression. Siamese Algae Eater – Care, Feeding, Tank Mates & Full Details! February 9, 2019. Catfish. 5. Goldfish, for example, make great tank mates for these livebearers. This species is also referred to as Mbuna Cichlid. Short description. Alberti or “Bigeye Squeaker” Catfish (Synodontis alberti) Size: 8 inches (20 cm) Minimum Tank Size: 55 gal (208 l)Synodontis eupterus. They are a relatively stocky fish, so they don’t require a ton of space to move. They do well in groups of 5 or more and they will do well fish species that have similar water requirements and temperament. Water Parameters. Then, add some plants and hiding places. Juveniles may start their lives in 20 – 50 gallon tank before being moved to their more giant, permanent aquarium. Synodontis are omnivorous and are most unfussy in terms of feeding. 8cm (6-7 ") sg. This patterning breaks up as the fish mature and adult specimens have a simple spotted colouration. Yellow Tail Acei cichlids. Species Summary Lace catfish (Synodontis nigrita), known as the false upside down catfish, is found in Senegal and many other African countries, including. Synodontis catfish like to burrow and can have difficulty with crushed coral. Synodontis Catfish are hardy and easy-going fish; who prefer temperatures ranging between 72 to 82°F and a relatively. Description. deden56. Size: 3-3. Neons are small, schooling fish that come from the same region as angels. 5ish at 25 degrees. Tank Size: Minimum 30 gallons (113 liters) Temperature Range: 75-80°F (24-27°C) Care Level: Moderate. It has a sand substrate, lots of slate and mopani root and some java fern at the moment. Siamese. Ensuring compatibility between tank mates is crucial to maintaining a harmonious and healthy aquarium. They are hardy fish with a striking appearance, making them a favorite among those who have kept them. Cuckoo Catfish, Even Spotted Synodontis, Pygmy Leopard Catfish [ Synodontis petricola SYN : S. regardless of what you want to cram in with it. The only way to sex Synodontis multipunctatus is by looking at their vents underneath. Some examples include: Avoid overcrowding: Synodontis catfish prefer to stay in groups of at least 4-5 fish, but too many tank mates or a small living space can cause stress and aggression. They feature a firm, bony head capsule extending from the backside to. Compatible companions include similar-sized fish that can hold their own, like certain types of Tetras, Barbs, and Danios. Good tank mates include Guppies, Mollies, and other Tetra species. Synodontis Catfish. Synodontis eupterus. The best tank mates for strawberry peacock cichlids are non-aggressive fish that live in the same environment as the cichlids. The Featherfin Squeakers inhabit much of Central Africa and can be mainly found in the basins of the White Nile, Volta and. The body of this species is elongated and narrow, and it can reach a length of 4 inches. They may eat smaller tank mates, and need to be kept in shoals of 5+. Corydoras are omnivorous and will eat a variety of foods, including pellets, flakes, and live foods. Giant danios fish are good tank mates for jewel cichlids. Its diet must include live foods. They are nocturnal by nature, which means they are most active during the night, creating a well-balanced tank activity schedule for both species. Some medium-sized non-aggressive type of catfish, such as Synodontis catfish or smaller Plecostomus species, make compatible tank mates. They are frequently found near cover such as driftwood, caves or plants. The minimum tank size is a 50-gallon tank, while the optimal is a 100-gallon tank size; the latter lets you keep a community of 10 peacock cichlids or so. My 3 large S. So are rainbowfish and leopard bushfish. Siamese Algae Eater – Care, Feeding, Tank Mates. Recommended Freshwater Aquarium Fish Combinations: 1) Apistogramma Dwarf Cichlid and Green Neon Tetra. It is an omnivore and will eat most aquarium foods, including flakes, pellets, frozen, and live foods. 5, dH: up to 15 degrees. This catfish is peaceful and can be kept with a wide variety of tank mates, including other catfish, cichlids, barbs, and tetras. The water should be clean and well-filtered, with a pH between 6. They’re a shoaling species and like to stay in groups when possible. Tank water parameters should be the following: temperature 24—27;°C, pH about 7, hardness dH about 10°. 17. 8. The Petricola Synodontis Catfish, also referred to as the pygmy Leopard Catfish, is found in east Africa’s Lake Tanganyika. Small fish can. It will cause no harm to the Paradise Fish. Additionally, when choosing a tank you should find a design that has a wide top and lots of surface area. The biggest threat to it will be territoriality, they can be very territorial and aggressive towards members of their own species. These fish are not particularly adaptable to changes in tank conditions, so keeping the water levels and temperature consistent is essential for their. Mostly a bottom feeder and generally peaceful towards tank mates. 5-6. Finding the right tank mates is as important as feeding them the right food or keeping them in ideal water conditions. Upside Down Catfish (Synodontis nigriventris)Home » Blog » 15 Best Cichlid Tank MatesThere are so many delightful cichlids to choose from for the beauty and enjoyment of your fish tank! However, if you’re looking for even more beauty, you may be wondering what are the 15 best cichlid tank companions? As an aggressive and territorial breed of f. Synodontis catfish can be compatible with a variety of peaceful fish species in a community. I think a 55 is even way too small just for a single 10" Bullhead. Cichlids, barbs, rainbowfish, and different strong fishes are excellent tank mates; solely the smaller species of Synodontis Catfish needs to be saved on the whole group aquariums. Similarly, arowanas, flowerhorns, Oscars, and other similar fish will not bother a fish of a similar size, but if that fish can fit into their mouths, they won't think twice! Provide enough space for each fish. And iridescents don’t know how to defend themselves. Synodontis Catfish The Featherfin Squeaker is fairly large and a long-lived catfish. Synodontis multipunctatus also called cuckoo squeaker catfish is a popular addition to cichlid tanks because not only. The larger ones need at least 30g and do well in hard water. Dragonblood Peacock cichlids. Flagtail catfish can reach a length of about 20 inches, but are typically between 12 and 16 inches long. The Upside Down Catfish, also known as Synodontis nigriventris, is a unique and fascinating fish species known for swimming upside down. Siamese Algae Eater – Care, Feeding, Tank Mates & Full Details! February 9, 2019. Go slow when you decide to pair your shy, retiring (monstrous) catfish with a potentially aggressive tank mate. The best tank mates for Synodontis catfish, you ask? Well, they are best kept in tanks with fish from similar habitats, particularly fish native to the rivers and lakes of Africa and other Synodontis catfish types. Once you zero in on a list, we might help you further. Tank Setup Smaller fish may become prey to the catfish or may be harassed or stressed by its presence. These fish spend upwards of 90% of their time in the inverted position and have a reverse colour scheme to most fish – with their belly being darker than the dorsal area. Having about 8 to 10 in. In the wild pictus catfish inhabits in lentic waters and as a rule lives where the water flow is slow, the bottom is sandy or muddy. Synodontis Catfish – Care, Types, Tank Mates & Full Details! April 10, 2020. A 20. The remarkable Upside-Down Catfish beautifully swims. Suitable Tank Mates: Other African Cichlids: Species from the same region, such as Yellow Lab Cichlids or Blue Dolphin Cichlids , can usually coexist peacefully with bumblebee cichlids. Tank Mates. #10. Tank Mates. These catfish are equipped with spikes on the dorsal fin, making them capable enough to hold their own even against the most aggressive cichlid species. Synodontis Catfish. Tank Mates. Featherfins can be kept as individuals or in small groups. All these fish can hold their own in the tank and are large enough to be avoided as prey. This species likes to lay its eggs on plants, so the more plants you have, the better. The best tank mates are those that share similar water parameter needs and. Size: 3-3. Socolofi Cichlids are mouthbrooders, which means that. In the wild, they can grow to be over 6 feet long! TheWest African lungfish is a hardy fish that can adapt to a range of water conditions. The minimum tank size for 1 upside down catfish is 20 gallons, with an additional 10 gallons per fish. Also, you can keep different types of dwarf snakeheads together in one aquarium but they should be separated by gender. Zero kg (97. Even though the temperature is not a critical factor, but the Upside-Down. Shop Synodontis ocellifer and hundreds of other common and exotic freshwater aquarium fish direct from one of the leading aquarium fish breeders in North America since 1970. Juveniles may start their lives in 20 – 50 gallon tank before being moved to their more giant, permanent aquarium. Fast, Hardy Large Fish. Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons. Siamese Algae Eater. I’m Fabian, aquarium fish breeder and founder of this website. They commonly have a lifespan of 8 to 10 years, but there are reports of them living up to 25 years. Lifespan. This article will discuss what the best Electric Blue Jack Dempsey tank mates are when trying to find companions for your Electric Blue Jack. Your synodontis catfish, depending on the species, may be a great tankmate. Clown loaches can tolerate temperatures of 74 degrees Fahrenheit, but this is on the low end of what will be acceptable. Though there are over 120 different species of Synodontis catfish, the majority of them make great tank mates for cichlids. PicturesGet about 6 of them for the 125. Tetras, Guppies, and other Corydoras species make great tank mates. In a well-equipped aquarium, you will find it extremely easy to take care of your Upside-Down Catfish. Most aquarists agree that starting with a 125-gallon tank or larger is the best course of action unless you have a multi-aquarium setup. A pair of Starry Night Cichlids need a minimum tank size of 120 gallons. Origin. Diet: Omnivorous, both vegetables and protein are consumed in order to obtain overall health. The ideal water temperature for clown loaches is said to be between 78 degrees Fahrenheit and 79 degrees Fahrenheit. synodontis petricola, also known as the pygmy leopard catfish, is a catfish which grows to a length of approximately 4 inches Native to Lake Tanganyika in Eastern Africa, this species is rare and highly sought amongst aquarists. The tank is 4'x18"x12" the rest of the fish are community fish swordtails,guppies,cardinals,cloown loaches and bronze catfish,There are no signs of any injuries. Synodontis angelicus tank mates. Keep us on PlanetCatfish updated from time to time regarding your Syno. Pros of keeping with Auratus Cichlid: Both species have practically the same water requirements. Synodontis Catfish – Care, Types, Tank Mates & Full Details! April 10, 2020. February 6, 2021 / shamim1410. Standard 125-gallon tanks usually measure about 72 inches across. Temperature 72-82°F. Parameters & Tank Setup. Minimum tank size: 20 gallons for a school of four. com. The dorsal fin is well developed, which extends from the gill line to the tail itself and is pointed at the end. 3) Fish that develop a taste for bichir 'slime' are not a good idea. As long as this beautiful, berry-eyed fish is kept with a cichlid like the African cichlid which is too small to do it harm, it makes a great tank mate. Cuckoo Catfish. Synodontis are kind of nocturnal, so probably they found a snack there. Corydoras are a member of the catfish family and are known for their unique barbels, or whiskers, on their faces. Gravel can be an option, however, is not usually found in their natural environment. Not only do these bottom feeders add variety to a tank, but they also help keep it clean by consuming leftover food and detritus. 0 International The Hoplo Catfish is a bottom-dwelling fish that tends to keep to itself.