Fin's Fish Guide
The Clouded squeaker (Synodontis nebulosus) is a freshwater fish of the family Mochokidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
The clouded squeaker is a squeaker catfish (Mochokidae) from southern Africa, in the lower Zambezi basin. The species reaches about 15 cm and has a brown body with a clouded, mottled pattern, to which the name refers, and three pairs of barbels. It prefers floodplain and riverine environments but also occurs in rocky areas. The diet consists of detritus, algae and bottom invertebrates. Adults form pairs during breeding. The stout, lockable fin spines can cause puncture wounds when handled; the species lives for about four to five years.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Clouded squeaker?
The Clouded squeaker has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Cloudy, marbled pattern; forms pairs during reproduction and lives 4-5 years.
Where does the Clouded squeaker live?
The Clouded squeaker lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Southern Africa, in the lower reaches of the Zambezi basin.
How big does the Clouded squeaker get?
The Clouded squeaker grows to a maximum of about 15 cm. On average the species is around 11 cm.
Is the Clouded squeaker dangerous to humans?
The Clouded squeaker can cause injury; handle it with care. Not venomous, but the lockable pectoral and dorsal fin spines are sharp and can cause painful punctures and cuts when handled. Hold the fish carefully and clean and disinfect any wound.
Is the Clouded squeaker edible?
The Clouded squeaker is rarely 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 Clouded squeaker?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Clouded squeaker is one of 12,519 species in the app.