Commonly known as "Synodontis cats"
or "upside-down cats" these African
catfish are recognised by the local population
as "squeakers" owing to the noise
they make when lifted out of the water.
There are over 150 species in this family and
they are noted for their feathered barbels and
unique shape which separates them from all other
catfish. They make very hardy inmates of an
aquarium and the vast majority are peaceful
apart from territorial skirmishes. Adipose fin
usually very large; anal fin with fewer than
10 rays; dorsal and pectoral fin spines usually
strong and with a locking mechanism; three pairs
of barbels, nasal barbels absent and mandibular
barbels may have numerous branches; some with
lips and part of barbels modified into an oral
sucker (Atopochilus, Chiloglanis,
and Euchilichthys).
If you would like to contribute to the monthly
factsheets with an article, information or photos, please e-mail
me. You will of course be credited for your work.
If you would like to donate any denomination
of monies to the site just click the above link button. All proceeds
will go to running the site and hopefully to keep it going for a few
years yet.