Fin's Fish Guide
The Catfish (Synodontis filamentosus) is a freshwater fish of the family Mochokidae that grows up to 26 cm.
Description
The squeaker catfish is a squeaker catfish (Mochokidae) from West Africa. The species has a stocky, dark body with a bony-armoured head, an adipose fin, three pairs of barbels and a thread-like elongated dorsal fin spine. It lives bottom-bound in rivers and searches by touch for insect larvae, molluscs and plant matter. When handled it can make a squeaking sound with the pectoral fin spines. The stout fin spines can give a painful puncture wound.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Catfish?
The Catfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Thread-like elongated dorsal fin spine; bottom-probing catfish that makes a creaking sound with its pectoral fin spines.
Where does the Catfish live?
The Catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. West Africa; rivers, bottom-dwelling.
How big does the Catfish get?
The Catfish grows to a maximum of about 26 cm.
Is the Catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Catfish 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 Catfish edible?
Yes, the Catfish is commonly eaten.
More photos
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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 Catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.