Fin's Fish Guide
The Leopard squeaker (Synodontis pardalis) is a freshwater fish of the family Mochokidae that grows up to 24 cm.
Description
The leopard squeaker is a synodontis catfish (Mochokidae) from Cameroon in Central Africa. The species has a stocky, scaleless body with a conspicuous leopard-like spotted pattern, three pairs of barbels and stout, serrated fin spines. It lives on the bottom of rivers, where it forages at night on insect larvae, small invertebrates and plant matter. Owing to a limited range and habitat loss the species is considered endangered. The serrated fin spines can give a painful puncture wound when handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Leopard squeaker?
The Leopard squeaker has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Leopard-like blotched pattern; synodontis threatened by its limited range and habitat loss.
Where does the Leopard squeaker live?
The Leopard squeaker lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Dja River (Congo basin) in southern Cameroon; river bottoms.
How big does the Leopard squeaker get?
The Leopard squeaker grows to a maximum of about 24 cm.
Is the Leopard squeaker dangerous to humans?
No, the Leopard squeaker 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 Leopard squeaker edible?
The Leopard squeaker is rarely eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Leopard squeaker?
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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 Leopard squeaker?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Leopard squeaker is one of 12,519 species in the app.