Fin's Fish Guide
The Spotted squeaker (Synodontis punctifer) is a freshwater fish of the family Mochokidae that grows up to 28 cm.
Description
The Spotted squeaker is an African squeaker catfish (Mochokidae) from fresh water of the Congo basin in Central Africa. The species grows to about 20 cm and has a sturdy, often spotted body with a large adipose fin, three pairs of fringed barbels and a hard, toothed nape shield; some species characteristically swim upside down. As a nocturnal bottom-dweller it searches for insect larvae, snails, crustaceans and plant matter. The lockable, serrated pectoral and dorsal spines are venomous and can give a painful puncture wound.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Spotted squeaker?
The Spotted squeaker has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Finely spotted body; creaking bottom catfish of the Congo basin with serrated fin spines.
Where does the Spotted squeaker live?
The Spotted squeaker lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Congo basin in Central Africa; river bottoms.
How big does the Spotted squeaker get?
The Spotted squeaker grows to a maximum of about 28 cm.
Is the Spotted squeaker dangerous to humans?
The Spotted squeaker is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. For a sting from a fin spine: rinse the wound, remove any visible spine fragments and immerse the part for 30-90 minutes in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 C) to break down the venom. The pain can be severe. For marked swelling, a retained spine or signs of infection seek medical care and check tetanus status.
Is the Spotted squeaker edible?
The Spotted squeaker is rarely eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Spotted squeaker?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Spotted squeaker is one of 12,519 species in the app.
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 Spotted squeaker?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Spotted squeaker is one of 12,519 species in the app.