Fin's Fish Guide
The Lake Victoria squeaker (Synodontis victoriae) is a freshwater fish of the family Mochokidae that grows up to 35 cm.
East Africa; rivers and lakes of Lake Victoria and its surroundings, often deeper water.
Description
The Victoria squeaker is an African catfish of the squeaker family (Mochokidae) from Lake Victoria and surrounding waters in East Africa. The species grows to about 35 cm and has a stocky body with barbels, an adipose fin and stout fin spines. It occurs in rivers and lakes and prefers deeper water (to about 80 metres). As a bottom searcher it feeds on molluscs, insect larvae, small invertebrates and growth. Squeakers make a creaking sound with the pectoral spines. The sharp pectoral and dorsal spines can give painful puncture wounds, so handle the fish with care. The species is a local food fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Lake Victoria squeaker?
The Lake Victoria squeaker has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Squeaker of Lake Victoria that prefers deeper water; sharp, stinging fin spines.
Where does the Lake Victoria squeaker live?
The Lake Victoria squeaker lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. East Africa; rivers and lakes of Lake Victoria and its surroundings, often deeper water.
How big does the Lake Victoria squeaker get?
The Lake Victoria squeaker grows to a maximum of about 35 cm.
Is the Lake Victoria squeaker dangerous to humans?
No, the Lake Victoria squeaker is harmless to humans. The stout, sharp fin spines can cause painful puncture or cut wounds; handle the fish with care. Clean the wound, let it bleed, and seek medical care if pain or infection increases.
Is the Lake Victoria squeaker edible?
Yes, the Lake Victoria squeaker 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 Lake Victoria squeaker?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Lake Victoria squeaker is one of 12,519 species in the app.