Common Name: Clown Squeaker Catfish
Scientific Name: Synodontis decorus
Other Names: Decorated Synodontis, Clown Synodontis
The Clown Squeaker Catfish is a visually striking species of upside-down catfish from Africa’s Congo River system. It is well known for its elongated, flowing dorsal fin, unique spotted pattern, and active swimming behavior. Unlike many other Synodontis species, Synodontis decorus is more surface-active and can often be seen foraging during the day, though it still exhibits the classic nocturnal tendencies of the genus. Its playful yet peaceful nature makes it a favorite among aquarists who keep large African or community tanks.
Habitat and Distribution:
Native to the Congo River Basin in Central Africa, this species is found in slow-moving tributaries, floodplains, and deep river channels. These environments feature sandy or rocky substrates with abundant driftwood and submerged roots, providing plenty of hiding spaces. The waters are typically warm, slightly acidic to neutral, and rich in dissolved oxygen.
Size and Lifespan:
Clown Squeaker Catfish can grow up to 9-12 inches (23-30 cm) in length, making them one of the larger Synodontisspecies. They are long-lived, with an average lifespan of 10-15 years in well-maintained aquariums.
Diet and Behavior:
Synodontis decorus is an omnivorous scavenger, feeding on a variety of plant and animal matter in the wild. In captivity, their diet should include:
- High-quality sinking pellets and wafers
- Frozen or live foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and insect larvae
- Blanched vegetables like zucchini, spinach, and peas
- Occasional protein-rich treats such as chopped tilapia
They are peaceful but active bottom-dwellers that enjoy swimming in open spaces while also retreating to hiding spots. They are well-known for their ability to swim upside down, a behavior common in Synodontis species. They are social fish but should be kept with tank mates that match their size and activity level.
Breeding and Reproduction:
Breeding Synodontis decorus in captivity is extremely rare, and little is known about their exact spawning behavior. In the wild, they are suspected to be egg scatterers, depositing eggs in crevices or dense vegetation. Successful breeding would likely require soft, acidic water and a seasonal temperature fluctuation to mimic natural breeding conditions.
Aquarium Care and Tank Requirements:
Due to their size and active nature, Clown Squeaker Catfish require a minimum of 75 gallons, though a larger tank (100+ gallons) is recommended for a group. Their ideal setup includes:
- Substrate: Soft sand or smooth gravel
- Decor: Driftwood, rock caves, and PVC pipes for hiding spaces
- Filtration: Strong filtration to handle their bioload
- Water Movement: Moderate to strong current to simulate river conditions
- Lighting: Low to moderate lighting, as they prefer dimly lit areas
Ideal Tank Mates:
Clown Squeaker Catfish are peaceful but should be housed with similarly sized fish that can tolerate their active nature. Suitable tank mates include:
- Larger African tetras (Phenacogrammus species)
- Peaceful cichlids such as Geophagus or Pelvicachromis
- Other Synodontis catfish species
- Medium to large barbs and peaceful characins
Avoid small, delicate fish that may become stressed by their activity level or be seen as potential food.
Difficulty Level:
Intermediate. They are hardy and adaptable but require a spacious tank, stable water conditions, and a varied diet to thrive.
Water Parameters:
- Temperature: 74-82°F (23-28°C)
- pH: 6.5-7.5
- General Hardness (GH): 4-12 dGH
- Carbonate Hardness (KH): 3-8 dKH
- Ammonia: 0 ppm
- Nitrite: 0 ppm
- Nitrate: <20 ppm (regular water changes required)
Additional Information:
- Clown Squeaker Catfish get their name from the ability to produce squeaking sounds by rubbing their pectoral fins against their sockets, a behavior often used during social interactions or when disturbed.
- They develop a more striking contrast in coloration as they mature, with their spots becoming more defined.
- They are one of the few large catfish species that remain peaceful and do not pose a threat to smaller tank mates.
The Clown Squeaker Catfish is a unique and entertaining species that adds both personality and activity to an aquarium. With proper care, they can live for over a decade, making them a great choice for aquarists looking for an engaging, long-term addition to their tank.
