Malawi squeaker (Synodontis njassae)

Scientific name: Synodontis njassae Keilhack, 1908

The Malawi squeaker (Synodontis njassae) is a freshwater fish of the family Mochokidae. In the aquarium it needs water at 20–23°C (68–73°F). Native range: Africa, Lake Malawi.

Malawi squeaker care at a glance

Temperature: 20–23°C (68–73°F)

Biology

Found among the rocks during the day and moves around the area at night. Feeds on insects, crustaceans and other invertebrates. Oviparous. Because of its bony head, this species is often not marketed in Malawi where it is relatively common and considered a favored food of fishermen. Marketed in Kyela.

Source: FishBase, licensed CC BY-NC 4.0.

Species facts

Scientific name: Synodontis njassae
Family: Mochokidae (Squeakers or upside-down catfishes)
Order: Siluriformes (Catfish)
Class: Actinopterygii (Ray-finned fishes)
Maximum length: 19.2
Environment: Freshwater;; pH range: 7.5 - 8.2; dH range: 20 - 30 benthopelagic
Climate: Tropical
Distribution: Africa: Lake Malawi.
Conservation status (IUCN): Least Concern (LC)
Threat to humans: Harmless
Uses: Fisheries: minor commercial; aquarium: commercial
Resilience: High, minimum population doubling time less than 15 months (Preliminary K or Fecundity.)