Angel Squeaker, also known as the Polkadot Squeaker, Black Clown Catfish, Whitespotted Squeaker, or Pearl Squeaker, is a type of upside-down catfish.
It’s originally from the Congo Basin, which is in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Republic of the Congo.
This fish was first described in 1891 by a Belgian scientist named Louise Schilthuis. She found it in the Malebo Pool of the Congo River.
The name “angelicus” means heavenly or divine because young angel squeakers have bright colors that make them stand out.
Angel squeakers are sometimes called “angel cats” when they are sold as pets.
You can check out what this fish looks like over here.
Angel Squeaker Interesting Facts
- Angel squeaker fish is also known as the black clown catfish, whitespotted squeaker, and pearl squeaker.
- This fish species is native to the Congo Basin in Africa.
- Its scientific name “angelicus” means heavenly or divine.
- These fish are oviparous, which means they lay eggs.
Angel Squeaker Habitat
Angel Squeaker fish can be found in Africa, specifically in the Congo River basin.
However, it’s not found in the Zambian Congo region or the central forest area.
This fish does live in the Pool Malebo (also known as Stanley Pool) and in the river systems of the Kasai and Ubangi.
It lives in freshwater environments and swims near the bottom of the water (benthopelagic).
Angel squeaker prefers a water pH level between 6.0 to 8.0, and a water hardness level (dH) between 5 to 19. The ideal temperature for this fish is between 75°F to 82°F (24°C to 28°C).
Angel squeaker fish can be found in tropical areas, around 3°N to 10°S latitude.
| Water Temperature: | 75°F to 82°F (24°C to 28°C) |
| Water pH: | 6.0 to 8.0 pH |
| Water Hardness: | 5 to 19 dH |
Angel Squeaker Physical Characteristics
Size: 21.65 inches (55.0 centimeters)
Angel squeakers can grow up to 21.65 inches (55.0 centimeters) upon maturation.
Angel Squeaker Reproduction
Angel squeaker fish are oviparous, which means they lay eggs to reproduce.
During the breeding process, they form distinct pairs.
Angel Squeaker Scientific Classification
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Actinopterygii |
| Order: | Siluriformes |
| Family: | Mochokidae |
| Genus: | Synodontis |
| Scientific Name: | Synodontis angelicus |
| Also Known As: | Angel Squeaker, Polkadot Squeaker, Black Clown Catfish, Whitespotted Squeaker, Pearl Squeaker |
| Conservation Status: | Least Concern |