Fin's Fish Guide
The Catfish (Synodontis ocellifer) is a freshwater fish of the family Mochokidae that grows up to 49 cm.
Description
The ocellated squeaker is a synodontis catfish (Mochokidae) from West and Central Africa, including the Niger, Volta and Chad basins. The species has a stocky, scaleless body with a few large, eyespot-like dark blotches on the flank, to which the name refers, a flattened belly, three pairs of barbels and stout, serrated fin spines. It lives on the bottom of rivers, where it forages on insect larvae, small invertebrates and plant matter. When disturbed it can creak. It is oviparous. The serrated fin spines can give a painful puncture wound.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Catfish?
The Catfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Large eyespot-like flank blotches; crunching bottom catfish with serrated fin spines.
Where does the Catfish live?
The Catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. West and Central Africa; rivers.
How big does the Catfish get?
The Catfish grows to a maximum of about 49 cm.
Is the Catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Catfish is harmless to humans. Not venomous, but the stout, serrated 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.