Description
Clown Squeaker – Synodontis decora
Introduction:
The Clown Squeaker (Synodontis decora) is a captivating catfish known for its distinctive, striking coloration and unique vocalization, which has earned it the “squeaker” moniker. Native to the Congo River Basin in Central Africa, this species thrives in slow-moving, well-oxygenated waters. Its attractive pattern, which resembles a “clownish” arrangement of black spots against a light body, and its peaceful nature make it a great addition to larger community aquariums. Clown Squeakers can grow up to 6–8 inches (15–20 cm), and they are typically bottom-dwellers, enjoying the security of hiding spots in the tank.
1. Natural Habitat and Behavior
The Clown Squeaker inhabits the slow-moving waters of the Congo River and its tributaries, where it is found among rocks and submerged wood. This species prefers the slightly acidic to neutral waters of the river, with moderate to slow currents.
- Behavior: The Clown Squeaker is a peaceful species that can be kept with a wide variety of non-aggressive tank mates. It is nocturnal by nature, coming out mostly at night to forage and explore the substrate.
- Vocalization: Known as the “squeaker” catfish, it has the ability to produce a squeaking sound by rubbing its pectoral fins against its body. This behavior is most often displayed when it feels threatened or excited.
- Appearance: The Clown Squeaker has a striking body with a light, creamy coloration adorned with irregular dark spots, giving it a clown-like appearance. Its elongated body and barbels add to its charm, while its pectoral fins are well-developed, allowing it to navigate the tank with ease.
2. Aquarium Setup
- Tank Size: A minimum of 30 gallons (115 liters) is recommended for a single Clown Squeaker. If keeping multiple individuals, larger tanks (50 gallons or more) are better. This catfish enjoys having space to explore its environment.
- Substrate: A soft, sandy substrate is ideal to mimic its natural habitat and to protect its delicate barbels from injury. Fine gravel can also be used, but avoid sharp or jagged materials.
- Decor: Provide plenty of hiding spots using rocks, caves, and driftwood. These serve as retreats for the Clown Squeaker, giving it a sense of security, especially during daylight hours when it tends to be more reserved.
- Water Conditions:
- Temperature: 74–80°F (23–27°C)
- pH: 6.0–7.5
- Hardness: 4–10 dGH
- Filtration: Use a gentle filtration system that avoids strong currents, as Clown Squeakers prefer slow-moving water. Good water oxygenation is essential for their health, so ensure proper circulation without disturbing the substrate too much.
- Lighting: Moderate lighting is fine, though dimmer conditions are generally preferred by this nocturnal species. Too bright of a light may stress the catfish, so adding some floating plants to create shaded areas can be helpful.
3. Diet and Feeding
The Clown Squeaker is an omnivorous catfish and will accept a wide range of food types. As a bottom feeder, it scours the substrate for food but can also take advantage of food in the middle levels of the tank.
- Staple Foods: Provide high-quality sinking pellets or wafers formulated for catfish. These will ensure it gets the proper nutrients at the bottom of the tank.
- Supplemental Foods: Offer occasional live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, or daphnia to boost protein intake.
- Vegetation: Clown Squeakers will appreciate plant matter such as blanched zucchini, spinach, or algae wafers, which can help balance their diet with necessary fiber.
- Feeding Schedule: Feed the Clown Squeaker once or twice a day. Offer a variety of foods to ensure it gets a balanced diet, and avoid overfeeding, as this can lead to water quality issues.
4. Compatibility with Other Fish
The Clown Squeaker is a peaceful species that does well in community tanks with other calm, non-aggressive fish.
- Tank Mates: Suitable tank mates include small to medium-sized tetras, barbs, livebearers, and peaceful cichlids. It also gets along with other catfish species, provided they are not overly territorial.
- Behavior: While generally peaceful, the Clown Squeaker can be shy and may prefer to stay in the lower levels of the tank, particularly if it feels threatened. Ensure it has plenty of hiding spots to retreat to when necessary.
- Avoid: Avoid keeping the Clown Squeaker with aggressive species or large predators that might see it as food.
- Feeding: As a bottom feeder, the Clown Squeaker won’t typically compete with mid-level or top-dwelling fish for food. However, ensure it has enough access to sinking food or the ability to forage in the substrate without being outcompeted by faster or more dominant fish.
5. Common Challenges and Tips
- Shyness: The Clown Squeaker can be shy and reserved, especially in the presence of more active or boisterous fish. Providing hiding spots and maintaining a peaceful aquarium environment will help reduce stress and encourage the catfish to become more active.
- Water Quality: Maintaining high water quality is crucial for the health of the Clown Squeaker. Regular water changes and monitoring for ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates should be a priority.
- Vocalization: While their squeaking can be an interesting behavior to observe, it can sometimes be disruptive, especially in a quiet room. If the catfish squeaks frequently, it could be a sign of stress. Check that the environment is calm and that the fish has enough space and hiding places.
- Health Issues: As with other catfish species, Clown Squeakers can be susceptible to common freshwater diseases like ich or fin rot, particularly if water quality declines. Regularly inspect the catfish for any signs of distress or disease, and treat promptly if needed.
Conclusion
The Clown Squeaker (Synodontis decora) is an attractive and peaceful catfish that can make an excellent addition to a community aquarium. With its unique coloration, vocalizations, and nocturnal behavior, it adds both beauty and personality to the tank. With proper tank conditions, diet, and compatible tank mates, the Clown Squeaker can thrive and become a delightful centerpiece in any freshwater setup.
