Fin's Fish Guide
The Brichard's synodontis (Synodontis brichardi) is a freshwater fish of the family Mochokidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Congo basin in Central Africa; rapids of the lower reaches of the Congo.
Description
Brichard's synodontis is a squeaker catfish (Mochokidae) from the Congo basin in Central Africa. The species has a slender, streamlined body, adapted to the strong current of the lower Congo, with a sucking lower mouth and barbels. It lives among stones in rapids and feeds on filamentous algae it rasps from rocks. The stout pectoral and dorsal fin spines can give a painful puncture wound when handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Brichard's synodontis?
The Brichard's synodontis has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Streamlined for strong currents; rasps algae from rocks, stinging fin spines.
Where does the Brichard's synodontis live?
The Brichard's synodontis lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Congo basin in Central Africa; rapids of the lower reaches of the Congo.
How big does the Brichard's synodontis get?
The Brichard's synodontis grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Brichard's synodontis dangerous to humans?
No, the Brichard's synodontis is harmless to humans. Not venomous, but the stout pectoral and dorsal fin spines can inflict a painful puncture wound. Clean the wound thoroughly and seek medical care if it becomes infected.
Is the Brichard's synodontis edible?
The Brichard's synodontis is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Synodontis
More from the family Mochokidae
Want the complete picture on the Brichard's synodontis?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Brichard's synodontis is one of 12,519 species in the app.