Fin's Fish Guide
The False upsidedown catfish (Synodontis nigrita) is a freshwater fish of the family Mochokidae that grows up to 34 cm.
West and Central Africa, in the rivers of the Niger and the Volta among others.
Description
The African squeaker is a scaleless catfish of the family Mochokidae reaching about 33 cm. The sturdy, brownish body is scattered with dark spots and carries three pairs of barbels around the downturned mouth, an adipose fin and strong, serrated spines in the dorsal and pectoral fins. With those pectoral spines the fish can make a grinding, 'squeaking' sound. The species is native to the rivers of West and Central Africa and is known outside Africa mainly as an aquarium fish. It is active at night and feeds as an omnivore on invertebrates, plant matter and detritus from the bottom. It reproduces in the rainy season when rivers flood.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the False upsidedown catfish?
The False upsidedown catfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. African catfish with three pairs of barbels, an adipose fin and stout, serrated spines; can make a grating ('whistling') sound with its pectoral fins.
Where does the False upsidedown catfish live?
The False upsidedown catfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. West and Central Africa, in the rivers of the Niger and the Volta among others.
How big does the False upsidedown catfish get?
The False upsidedown catfish grows to a maximum of about 34 cm.
Is the False upsidedown catfish dangerous to humans?
No, the False upsidedown catfish is harmless to humans. Not venomous, but the stout, serrated pectoral and dorsal spines can give painful puncture wounds; handle the fish carefully and clean any wound.
Is the False upsidedown catfish edible?
The False upsidedown catfish 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 False upsidedown catfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the False upsidedown catfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.