Fin's Fish Guide
The Bugeye squeaker (Synodontis contractus) is a freshwater fish of the family Mochokidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
Synodontis contractus, the bugeye squeaker, is a small African catfish of the family Mochokidae from the Congo basin. The species has a stocky body with a large head, conspicuously large eyes and three pairs of barbels, and reaches about 10 cm. It is best known for its habit of swimming upside-down and foraging in that position at the water surface and the undersides of plants and ledges. It forms large schools in pools and rivers with muddy bottoms or vegetation near the shore. The species is oviparous and, owing to this peculiar behaviour, is widely kept as an aquarium fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bugeye squeaker?
The Bugeye squeaker has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Swims and forages upside down; large eyes and three pairs of barbels.
Where does the Bugeye squeaker live?
The Bugeye squeaker lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Freshwater of the Congo basin in Central Africa.
How big does the Bugeye squeaker get?
The Bugeye squeaker grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Bugeye squeaker dangerous to humans?
No, the Bugeye squeaker is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Bugeye squeaker edible?
The Bugeye squeaker is not usually eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Bugeye squeaker?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bugeye squeaker is one of 12,519 species in the app.
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 Bugeye squeaker?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bugeye squeaker is one of 12,519 species in the app.