All fish / Mochokidae

Clown Squeaker

Synodontis decora

Also known as decorated synodontis, clown synodontis, decorated squeaker, synodontis decorus, synodontis decora, clown squeaker catfish, シノドンティス・デコルス, 装饰倒游鼠

A pale cream catfish covered in bold black spots, with a tall dorsal fin that often has a long trailing filament in adults. It is kept for its striking pattern, hardiness and long life, and it suits large community tanks with robust tankmates.

Care at a glance

Care level

Moderate

Temperament

Semi

Adult size

20 cm

Temperature

22 to 27 °C

pH

6 to 7.5

Smallest tank

300 litres

Keep as

Singly or in a group of 3 or more in a large tank

Diet

Omnivore: sinking pellets, wafers, bloodworm, brine shrimp and some vegetable matter

Swims

Bottom of the tank

Lifespan

10 to 15 years

Water

Freshwater

Wild range

Congo River basin, central Africa (DR Congo, Cameroon, Central African Republic)

Breeding

It is not known to have been bred reliably in home aquariums. Fish in the trade are mostly wild caught or produced on farms, possibly using hormones.

Good to know

It grows large and can bully or eat small fish, especially at night, so give it plenty of hiding places and avoid very small tankmates. The pectoral spines are sharp and easily catch in nets.