Deceptive catfish breeds in Aquamoon aquarium
The cuckoo catfish, Synodontis multipunctatus, is a small species of schooling freshwater catfish native to Africa. In the wild, these species cohabitate with another type of fish called cichlids (pronounced sick-lids), and are known for their peculiar breeding behavior. Taking their name from the cuckoo bird, the cuckoo catfish is a brood parasite. To relieve the burden of parental care, the cuckoo catfish tricks mouth brooding cichlids into caring for their young. Just before the female cichlid is about to scoop up her own eggs into the protective custody of her mouth, the cuckoo catfish darts in and deposits its own eggs. The cichlid unknowingly takes the catfish eggs into her mouth and incubates them as her own.
This deceptive behavior recently occurred in an aquarium under our care. Aquamoon is committed to creating habitats that replicate the natural environment and promote instinctive breeding behavior. This recent episode is an indicator that both fish species mentioned are thriving. Above is a photo of one of the offspring which is currently less than an inch in size.
Learn more: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Synodontis_multipunctatus
