Fin's Fish Guide
The Ornate squeaker (Synodontis ornatipinnis) is a freshwater fish of the family Mochokidae that grows up to 40 cm.
Description
The ornate squeaker is a synodontis catfish (Mochokidae) from the Congo basin in Central Africa. The species has a stocky, scaleless body with a flattened belly, three pairs of barbels and stout, serrated fin spines; the fins bear a handsome pattern, to which the name refers. Like other synodontis it can make a creaking sound with its fin spines and swim bladder when disturbed. It lives on the bottom of rivers, where it forages on insect larvae, small invertebrates and plant matter. It is oviparous. The serrated fin spines can give a painful puncture wound.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Ornate squeaker?
The Ornate squeaker has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Beautifully marked fins; creaking bottom catfish of the Congo basin with serrated fin spines.
Where does the Ornate squeaker live?
The Ornate squeaker lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Congo basin in Central Africa; river bottoms.
How big does the Ornate squeaker get?
The Ornate squeaker grows to a maximum of about 40 cm.
Is the Ornate squeaker dangerous to humans?
No, the Ornate 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 Ornate squeaker edible?
The Ornate squeaker is rarely eaten.
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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 Ornate squeaker?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Ornate squeaker is one of 12,519 species in the app.