Synodontis multipunctatus Boulenger, 1898:. Things like water quality, diet, and stress can all shorten their life expectancy. As long as tank mates can’t easily fit into the mouth of your Paratilapia polleni, there shouldn’t be too many problems keeping them with other African cichlids. While not particularly aggressive with others, the Synodontis catfish can mistake smaller fish for food. . Any tank mates should be quick enough to get out of the way of the sharp spines on their pectoral fins. Other planting is beneficial but not essential. Care and Tank Requirements. I would recommend focusing on fewer different types of fish in the tank and getting more appropriate schools of them rather than small numbers of so many different. The Cuckoo Catfish, also known by its scientific name Synodontis multipunctatus, is a catfish native to the Lake Tanganyika in Africa. Synodontis catfish, known for their peaceful nature, can. Synodontis Catfish Care Sheet. Minimum Tank Size: 55 gallons. Being peaceful, social fish, Odessa Barbs get along well with other similarly tempered species. Aquarium: A minimum 20-gallon tank is ideal for a single Upside Down Catfish, but a larger one is recommended if you plan on keeping tank mates. 4 Water Parameters. Charney 's got a 2-footer so his input would be quite fitting here. Pictus Catfish ( Pimelodus pictus) If you want a catfish with your cichlids, get a pictus catfish, which can also add to the aesthetics of your tank. However, neons are tiny, and angelfish will see them as food. The only good tank-mates for African Cichlids in my opinion, is more African Cichlids. Barbels act like taste buds and help them. They hail from the same East African Lake Malawi, allowing for similar water conditions and diet. If you’re keeping Synodontis multipunctatus (commonly known as a cuckoo squeaker). Perhaps one of the more surprising tankmates for African cichlids and other large fish, Synodontis Petricola are cute, shy, and good-natured. 5 inches. It’s important to choose tank mates carefully and to avoid any sudden changes in the tank. Tank Mates. You will also need to add some plants and hiding. If they don’t have the same requirements then the chances are one of the fish will die. 99!Salvini Cichlids Tank Mates. Synodontis Catfish. The Synodontis Catfish is a member of the family Mochokidae, which contains more than 190 species of African catfishes. When. When you occur to be an aquarist fortunate sufficient to have Synos breed within the tank, look ahead to a few of their attention-grabbing breeding behaviors. The Right Water and Aquarium Conditions. A pair of Starry Night Cichlids need a minimum tank size of 120 gallons. These catfish can provide a peaceful and stable tank environment for your cichlids. Several species of synodontis catfish come from the African Rift lakes and also like the hard, alkaline water your cichlids need to thrive. 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,. 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. Compatible With: Paradise Fish. At the end of the day, Upside Down Catfish need as much room to roam as possible. The average adult in an aquarium is 6-8 inches and in the wild the average adult can reach 12 inches. Popular types of peacock cichlids include: OB peacock cichlid – red base color with dark blue spots that are spread throughout the body but more prominent on the fish’s head. Unlike many other catfish, the Featherfin Squeaker is not a nocturnal fish and is most active during the day. 8 inches) in length when fully mature but should not be housed with larger tank mates. Frozen, live and dried foods are all accepted. The others also being Tanganyikan Synodontis species! The catfish times its spawning to coincide with that of a. How Big Do Synodontis Lace Catfish Get? May 9, 2023. TheWest African lungfish is a freshwater fish that is native to the rivers and lakes of West Africa. Synodontis Catfish Tank Mates. I think a 55 is even way too small just for a single 10" Bullhead. The Striped Raphael Catfish have a cylindrical, arrow-shaped body with a flattened belly. Peacock Cichlids typically measure between 4 and 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) in length. 5-7. Use our fish community creator tool to plan your tank set up and ensure. If you want to keep the Synodontis, think about adding bigger tank mates. (125 gallons or more) they are generally pretty easy going towards their tank mates. It should be at least 20 gallons in size and can be either freshwater or brackish. Siamese Algae Eater. Synodontis Angelicus are a great community fish with most other schooling fish. Synodontis Catfish can eat any sort of meal. Silver Arowana, Fancy Goldfish, Iridescent Sharks, Plecos and Synodontis Catfish are some great options for good-natured tank mates for your Flowerhorn!3. It reaches a maximum length of 55 centimeters (22 inches), most commonly reaching 25 centimeters (9. I would recommend focusing on fewer different types of fish in the tank and getting more appropriate schools of them rather than small numbers of so many different. Corydoras are a member of the catfish family and are known for their unique barbels, or whiskers, on their faces. PinkButterfly, I have heard that most Synodontis species can live, on average, about 25 years--which goes along with what Mats said. Sexing the fish: Males are larger, have more vibrant colors, and possess longer fin extensions than females. If you want to keep a few of these fish together in the same tank then you’ll need to provide them with more space. Plecos. Then, add some plants and hiding places. Also, ensure that there is more than one hiding spot per tank. Even though the temperature is not a critical factor, but the Upside-Down. Compatability: Make sure the lower level of the tank is not too crowded because these catfish will squabble for cover during daylight hours. One set of barbels is located on the top lip, and the other 2 sets are located on the bottom. Easily one of the more. 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. Synodontis multipunctatus is a species of catfish in the genus Synodontis. Synodontis Catfish, Redtail shark, Paratilapia, and Jewel Cichlids. Before spawning the couple (1 male and 1 female) are put separately and fed well. This African Catfish is commonly used as a cleaner in African Cichlid tanks. Water depth should be no deeper than 10 cm and tanks must have plenty of rocks and caves to provide refuge from other fish as well as blockage of larger predators such as cichlids or catfish. Synodontis Catfish. 99!It is essential to carefully consider tank mates for Oscar fish, as they may not be suitable for community tanks with smaller or more docile species. Some of the best-suited tank mates for electric yellow cichlids are: Other African cichlids species, including yellow tail Acei cichlids, Peacock cichlids, Red Zebra cichlids, Johanni cichlids, blue dolphin cichlids; Synodontis catfish; Jewel Cichlid; Red Tail Sharks The only way to sex Synodontis multipunctatus is by looking at their vents underneath. Pictus cats are tropical freshwater fish that prefer stable temperatures from 75 to 81°F. When mixed with compatible tank mates, they can live harmoniously, but a that’s mix less than the perfect match will end in disaster. They grow to about 3 inches (7. Asian stone catfish tank mates. It also gives you plenty of room to add additional Upside Down Catfish and any potential tank mates you may want. 5-8. #3. Temperature 72-82°F. If you have just one, or if spaces are scarce, the fish will fight each other for them. Also, ensure that there is more than one hiding spot per tank. The visuals above are not mine, all the credits go to their respective owners. The tank mates of the angelfish should feel great in soft water. Food and Diet. 1 Good Tank Mates for Silver Dollar; 12. Large Tetras and Barbs. Considered a dwarf catfish, Synodontis nigriventris reach an adult size of only 3 to 4 inches. Yes, it’s possible to house raphael catfish together with cichlids. Cichlids can peacefully be kept with many types of catfish. Synodontis catfish; Nyassachromis; Sciaenochromis; Shrimp and crabs aren’t good tank mates for strawberry peacock cichlids, because the fish will eat these tank mates. Choose other peaceful fish of similar size to avoid any potential conflicts. 5 to 8. 5 to 7. However, if you choose to add other fish into your tank with your Flowerhorn, it is important that you select peaceful species that won’t cause stress or harm the larger fish. In a well-equipped aquarium, you will find it extremely easy to take care of your Upside-Down Catfish. Nonetheless, massive adults are uniformly gray. Therefore, it’s crucial to choose suitable tank mates for yellow lab cichlids. Ideal Tank Mates for Mayan Cichlid 1. There are many other tank mates for african cichlids that don't (several types of synodontis catfish would work great) which means less contribution to the. This provides them with ample swimming space and allows you to create a suitable environment with hiding spots, decorations, and plants. An excellent choice would be the Synodontis catfish species, as they won’t compete. Tank Mates. Avoid similar-looking species as well as larger, more aggressive tank mates. Catfish: Some species of catfish, like Plecostomus and Synodontis, can coexist with Salvini Cichlids due to their nocturnal habits and armored bodies. The Black Ruby Barb is an active, territorial fish that serves as one of the best Tiger barbs tank mates and most other tropical fish. Water Temperature: 73 to 82 F. Because these catfish are on the shy side, they do best in a tank with other peaceful fish. They are frequently found near cover such as driftwood, caves or plants. The water flow in the tank should resemble that of a river. Use our fish community creator tool to plan your tank set up. Tank mates they tolerated while young can be bullied or. Lets take a look at some of the most suitable tank mates for Synodontis catfish. These fish spend upwards of 90% of. Some paradise fish tank mates that aquarists have had success with are: Bala sharks; Bristlenose plecos; Synodontis catfish; Gian daniosFloating vegetation is also recommended in order to diffuse the light entering the tank. Use driftwood and fake plants to add even more color and you'll have a colorful assortment of fish with a lot of activity from the loaches and silver dollars. Two dominant aggressive temperaments in the same tank will always lead to conflict and fights at some point, which is obviously a major issue. They are large bottom feeders that. It’d be hard to keep both fish healthy in the same fish tank. Breeding Synodontis multipunctatus - cuckoo catfish - A guide to keeping and breeding S. Sailfin Pleco. Bottom-dwelling species make excellent betta fish tank mates since they won’t hassle your betta or compete with him for food or swimming space. Giant Danio (Devario. 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. However, considering their social nature, it’s better to house them in groups, necessitating a larger tank. Another worth remembering point is that African Cichlids love to hide. The only way to sex Synodontis multipunctatus is by looking at their vents underneath. 2°C). Parameters & Tank Setup. Siamese. Siamese Algae Eater. 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 Tanzania where it is only known from Lake Tanganyika. Featherfins can be kept as individuals or in small groups. TOP 6 TANK MATES FOR SYNODONTIS CATFISH - YouTube 0:00 / 4:27 • Intro TOP 6 TANK MATES FOR SYNODONTIS CATFISH Finding Fishes 12. Its diet must include live foods. Synodontis Petricola is covered in numerous irregular dark brown spots, much smaller in size, and located on the head and ventral region. Origin: India, Sri Lanka, and Nepal. Synodontis multipunctatus also called cuckoo squeaker catfish is a popular addition to cichlid tanks because not only. So for a school of 4 catfish you should count on a tank that is at least 50 gallons. They will hide all the time when kept singly or with aggressive tank mates and only come out at. Compatibility: 4 out of 5. Perhaps one of the more surprising tankmates for African cichlids and other large fish, Synodontis Petricola are cute, shy, and good-natured. Overview: The synodontis eupterus belongs to the family of Mochokidae and shares its place among approximately 170 species, 50 of which belong to the same group of Synodontis. If you look through the photos, it may give you an idea of their compatibility and potential tank mates. They are great tank mates for African cichlids and are really the only appropriate tank mate. 5 and 7. Some medium-sized non-aggressive type of catfish, such as Synodontis catfish or smaller Plecostomus species, make compatible tank mates. jerdoni include Synodontis catfish, barbs, larger tetras, larger danio species, swordtails, rainbowfish, and others that are too large to eat it. Synodontis are omnivorous and are most unfussy in terms of feeding. Tank size is crucial, with larger Cichlids needing at least a 30-gallon tank and smaller ones requiring a minimum of 20 gallons. Be warned, however, that the Silver Dollar is large. Synodontis Catfish Tank Mates. deden56. Juveniles may start their lives in 20 – 50 gallon tank before being moved to their more giant, permanent aquarium. Maintain a temperature between 75°F and 82°F (24°C to 28°C) and a pH level around neutral (6. This is to help them camouflage from. These fish inhabit various habitats, such as clear and murky waters, rocky and sandy bottoms, and fast and slow-moving currents. Additionally, when choosing a tank you should find a design that has a wide top and lots of surface area. Corydoras catfish mature at less than 4 inches long, making them potential tank mates for smaller species of fancy goldfish. The Bristlenose Pleco is known for its peaceable nature, making it an excellent candidate for a community tank. Re: Tank Mates for pampered Spotted bullhead. 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. Lucipinnis Tank mates. Ideal tank mates include peaceful mid-to-top dwelling species like tetras or guppies. Synodontis Petricola Feeding Guidelines. Choosing suitable tank mates for your Fahaka Puffer can be a challenging task, as these fish are known for their aggressive and territorial behavior. The average lifespan of an upside-down catfish is 5 to 10 years. Synodontis Angelicus is a species of fish in family Mochokidae. The minimum tank size recommended for this fish is 20 gallons long. An fire eels would look striking in your setup has long has. The biggest threat to it will be territoriality, they can be very territorial and aggressive towards members of their own species. The Synodontis Ocellifer Catfish comes from various river systems of Western Africa and is a peaceful bottom scavenger. Siamese Algae. Select tank mates of a similar size or slightly smaller than the frontosa cichlids. Yellow Tail Acei cichlids. For a 125 gallon, currently stocked with 11 African glass catfish, 3 ropefish, 1 black ghost knife juvenile. Water Conditions. In this post, we’ll examine which fish make for good companions and offer guidance on how best to house your catfish with them. Tank Size: Minimum 30 gallons (113 liters) Temperature Range: 75-80°F (24-27°C) Care Level: Moderate. 5. . They can be great Arowana tank mates, but their nocturnal activity might disturb the Arowana at night, so you will need to observe the activities of this fish initially. In fact, they make great tank mates for most non-aggressive Mbunas and Haplochromines. Avoid similar-looking species as well as larger, more aggressive tank mates. Adults attain as much as 130 cm (4. Family: Mochokidae. You have a lot of unique options when it comes to Synodontis catfish tank mates! As always, try to keep the sizing similar across the board. Size. only keep them with fish of a similar size as they will predate on smaller tank mates, several can be kept together in the aquarium but each specimen. Siamese Algae Eater. Tank mates . Tetras, Guppies, and other Corydoras species make great tank mates. Lighting. They do well in groups of 5 or more and they will do well fish species that have similar water requirements and temperament. Some others, such as Siamese fighters, are loners, best kept alone. The tank mates need to be able to withstand the hulking nature of these large cichlids. 5-7. Synodontis Catfish. Yesterday Ph was 7. Make sure to keep only one male to every two females in your school of. Synodontis Catfish The synodontis catfish is typically pretty peaceful but is considered a semi-aggressive fish. The scientific name nigriventris refers to the fact that the belly of this fish is darker than the dorsal area. Here are my syno tanks, 120 gal and 2x 55 gal, from 10 years ago. Synodontis Catfish are a popular choice for aquarium enthusiasts who desire a striking and low-maintenance species as part of their aquatic community. The water should be clean and well-filtered, with a pH between 6. Females will have a round papilla; the males will be longer and more triangular in shape. Siamese Algae Eater. Ideal companions might include larger Tetras, Rasboras, Catfish, or similar-sized Loaches. Tank Mates. Neons are small, schooling fish that come from the same region as angels. Diet: Omnivore. You DO need to exercise some caution. Examples of tank mates incompatible with. Featherfin squeaker tank mates. In addition to choosing appropriate tank mates, it is important to feed Oscars a balanced diet and. Installing a water pump in your fish tanks can achieve such a requirement. Bolivian Rams are generally peaceful and can coexist with a variety of other species. The upside-down catfish very seldom spawns in a tank, that’s why to trigger the spawning process hormones injections are used. They are nocturnal by nature, which means they are most active during the night, creating a well-balanced tank activity schedule for both species. Synodontis angelicus tank mates. 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. Common name: Lace catfish. They will eat biofilm from driftwood, leftover food, decaying plant matter, and even deceased tank mates. As with most fish, there are a number of factors that can impact their lifespan. Choosing the right tank mates is crucial due to the Paradise Fish’s territorial nature. 8cm (6-7 ") sg. If you’re the intermediate and experienced cichlid keeper looking for an addition to your current Mbuna tank, then socolofi cichlids might be the fish for you. Aquarium: A minimum 20-gallon tank is ideal for a single Upside Down Catfish, but a larger one is recommended if you plan on keeping tank mates. Your synodontis catfish, depending on the species, may be a great tankmate. Native to Lake Malawi, they are carnivorous, preferring a diet of small invertebrates. The best tank mates for Frontosas are other peaceful African cichlids from Lake Tanganyika. The pricing can range from $10 to $30 per fish, depending on size and age. Installing a water pump in your fish tanks can achieve such a requirement. Cons of keeping with Auratus Cichlid: Availability & Pricing of Electric Blue Acara. 3 Same Species Tanks 1. Adults need a tank size that’s no less than 125 gallons. Minimum tank size: 20 gallons for a school of four. A really cool species of catfish that lives almost exclusively in the bottom part of your water column, write down on the bottom of your. South American cichlids are generally more peaceful than their African counterparts. They have beautiful striped silver and black bodies with flat bellies. Can hold its own with most Rift Lake catfish and cichlids seen in the hobby. 45 inch) 0 14. 1 Tank Size 1. It has a sand substrate, lots of slate and mopani root and some java fern at the moment. Synodontis Catfish – Care, Types, Tank Mates & Full Details! April 10, 2020. Water Temperature: 73 to 82 F. 8. Temperature. Synodontis Catfish – Care, Types, Tank Mates & Full Details! April 10, 2020. Once you zero in on a list, we might help you further. If it is small, then even the calmest individuals can be aggressive. I am setting up another 55 gallon tank. 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. The featherfin squeaker is a pretty peaceful fish and can live happily with most non-aggressive species like tetras, gouramis, zebra danio, Rasboras, and plecos. . The tank should be horizontally oriented. 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. Plecos and loaches just ignore each other in general, as if they can’t be bothered to acknowledge the other’s presence. Minimum Tank Size: 50 gallons. Tank Size; Water Parameters (Temperature and pH) Tank Setup and Decorations; Filtration and Aeration; Suitable Tank Mates;. Sometimes this fish is called the false upside down catfish. . The Blue Botia Loach can reach up to 7 inches with an extended, compact profile and an arched back. Bumblebee Catfish would be right up your alley if you want a pet that is easy to care for. The Red Zebras are a popular choice for a Kenyi Cichlid tank mate. The Upside Down Catfish (Synodontis nigriventris) is an interesting catfish that starts swimming upside down at around two months of age. Water quality is important to maintain the health of your red devil cichlid. What does synodontis catfish eat? With beautiful finnage and relatively gentle temperament, synodontis. Find out which fish species are most suitable. It is a freshwater fish that can be found in a variety of habitats, such as rivers, streams, and lakes. It’s crucial to provide a spacious tank with plenty of hiding spots, plants, and decorations to create territories and alleviate aggression. Iridescent Shark size. What size tank do synodontis catfish need? The Synodontis Multipunctatus Catfish will appreciate a fine sandy bottom with large caves and crevices. Its color may change to lighter shades with age. Rusty cichlids. While not particularly aggressive with others, the Synodontis catfish can mistake smaller fish for food. They are also very sensitive to water fluctuations. The Cuckoo catfish well deserves its name as it will lay its eggs at the same time as its tank mates, normally members of the Haplochromis species. Siamese Algae Eater – Care, Feeding, Tank Mates &. Choose tankmates carefully for this small species. Synodontis is a genus of upside-down catfishes. To prevent the buildup of phosphates, nitrates, and water hardness, replace at least 25% to 30% of the water weekly. I had mine from 3" to 8" with tank mates, a lot of tank mates, out of which the ecat really only zapped a 4-line Pim catfish for his zealous feeding antics. Good tank mates. 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. However, the Blue Botia Loach still makes one of the 17 best tanks mates for Peacock cichlids. When it comes to the bottom feeders for a 5-gallon fish tank, Stone Catfish, snails (e. These stunningly beautiful Haps are sexually dimorphic, and the males typically grow to be 7” long while females are around 5”. However, if given some driftwood or decor to claim as their own, they will be generally. It is an omnivore and will eat most aquarium foods, including flakes, pellets, frozen, and live foods. As Johanni Cichlids mature, they can become more territorial. How big do bumblebee catfish get? At a typical adult size of 6 inches (15 cm) , it is a perfect bottom dweller for the medium to large aquarium and it is an excellent tankmate for most other fish that are too large to be considered prey. Synodontis Catfish – Care, Types, Tank Mates & Full Details! April 10, 2020. Their large size requires them to live. These catfish may bother more timid species at night with its long barbels when in search for food. 0) and a temperature of 80°F (26-27°C). Alberti or “Bigeye Squeaker” Catfish (Synodontis alberti) Size: 8 inches (20 cm) Minimum Tank Size: 55 gal (208 l)Synodontis eupterus. Tank Mates and Compatibility. Tank Size. This catfish is relatively peaceful with similarly sized tank mates, reaching an adult size of approximately 4″. Origin: Brazil. Always avoid pairing your Iridescent shark with aggressive fish. I’m Fabian, aquarium fish breeder and founder of this website. It also doesn’t leave any room for potential tank mates. Tank Mates. 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 larger ones need at least 30g and do well in hard water. 8. Siamese Algae Eater – Care, Feeding, Tank Mates & Full Details. Here are some recommended tank mates for South American cichlids:A Synodontis catfish could be included with fine sand including aragonite. Channa gachua tank mates. Fast, Hardy Large Fish. Dragonblood Peacock cichlids. 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. Synodontis Catfish. Synodontis are African catfish, known for their peculiar look and interesting abilities. Zero kg (97. Upside Down Catfish: Tank Mates. The main pride. A complete guide to caring for the pictus catfish including diet and tank mates. This helps keep the water clean, the nitrate levels low, and the pH stable, replicating the clean, alkaline waters of their natural habitat. Care Level: Easy. Siamese Algae Eater. Tank Size. Synodontis Catfish prefer freshwater but can also tolerate brackish water. Scientific name: Synodontis nigrita. Avoid keeping them with aggressive species, which can cause undue stress and potential harm. Synodontis catfish like to burrow and can have difficulty with crushed coral. But remember, prices can vary based on location and market trends. The best alternative would be to buy a small shoal of corydoras catfish. Even the most careful selection of tank mates can end badly eventually. This patterning breaks up as the fish mature and adult specimens have a simple spotted colouration. In the aquarium Corydoras seem to have two modes, and. Gourami. petricola and S. Do not forget to make the water conditions suitable for them to thrive side by side. Siamese Algae Eater – Care,. Synodontis Catfish – Care, Types, Tank Mates & Full Details! April 10, 2020. It can get up to 11. Scientifically known as Synodontis nigriventris, Upside Down Catfish is a freshwater fish that is native to Africa and can usually be found in streams and rivers. Rate My Fish Tank: Freshwater Compatibility Chart ;Synodontis catfish; Texas cichlid; Tinfoil barbs. Scientific Name: Synodontis multipunctatus; Full-Grown Size: Up to 10 inches; Care Difficulty: Moderate; Good Tank Mates: African Cichlids, Gouramis, Loaches; Place of Origin: Africa; Another excellent Synodontis catfish option is the Cuckoo, which tends to be a good fit for most of the less-aggressive African Cichlids. Fast, Hardy Large Fish.