Fin's Fish Guide
The Poll's squeaker (Synodontis polli) is a freshwater fish of the family Mochokidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
Poll's squeaker is a synodontis catfish (Mochokidae) endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. The species has a stocky, scaleless body with a flattened belly, three pairs of barbels and stout, serrated fin spines. It lives in schools in the open water layers and above the bottom of the lake, where it forages on zooplankton, insect larvae and small invertebrates. Like other synodontis it can make a creaking sound when disturbed. It is popular in the aquarium hobby. The serrated fin spines can give a painful puncture wound.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Poll's squeaker?
The Poll's squeaker has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Endemic, shoal-forming synodontis of Lake Tanganyika; aquarium fish.
Where does the Poll's squeaker live?
The Poll's squeaker lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa; open water and bottom.
How big does the Poll's squeaker get?
The Poll's squeaker grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Poll's squeaker dangerous to humans?
No, the Poll's 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 Poll's squeaker edible?
The Poll's 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 Poll's squeaker?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Poll's squeaker is one of 12,519 species in the app.