Synodontis angelicus facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Synodontis angelicus |
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The Synodontis angelicus is a special kind of upside-down catfish. People often call it the polkadot squeaker or angel squeaker. It also has other fun names like black clown catfish, whitespotted squeaker, or pearl squeaker. This fish comes from the Congo Basin in Africa. You can find it in countries like the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Republic of the Congo. A scientist named Louise Schilthuis first described this fish in 1891. She found it in the Malebo Pool of the Congo River. The name "angelicus" means "heavenly" or "divine". This is because the young fish have amazing bright colors!
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What Does the Polkadot Squeaker Look Like?
Colors and Patterns
Adult polkadot squeakers are usually grey or dark purple. They have cool reddish-yellow or brown-red spots. These spots are on their head, sides, and even on their bellies. The spots are spread out nicely and have clear, sharp edges. Sometimes, the spots might have a dark purple outline. Their fins are dark purple with brownish spots and lines.
Younger fish, about 4 to 9 centimeters long, look very different! They are super colorful. They have bright white, round spots on a red-purple background. This makes them look really striking.
Fins and Teeth
The first part of their top fin (dorsal fin) is hard and has a rough edge. The fins on their sides (pectoral fins) also have a hard, rough first part. Their tail fin is deeply split, almost like a "V" shape. The top part of the tail even has a little extension.
These fish have two types of teeth. In their upper jaw, they have short, cone-shaped teeth. In their lower jaw, their teeth are S-shaped and can move.
How Big Do They Get?
Most polkadot squeakers grow to be about 25 centimeters (about 10 inches) long. But some very big ones have been found in nature. These can be as long as 55 centimeters (about 22 inches)!
Keeping Polkadot Squeakers in an Aquarium
Many people like to keep the polkadot squeaker as a pet fish. It is a popular choice for aquariums.
Daily Habits
This polka-dot African catfish is mostly active at night. This means they are nocturnal. During the day, they might hide or rest. At night, they come out to explore.
Food and Habitat
These catfish like to dig in the gravel or sand at the bottom of their tank. They might even nibble on plants a little bit. They enjoy eating small live foods. They also eat special prepared foods made for fish.
For a happy polkadot squeaker, the water in their tank should be warm. They like temperatures between 24 to 28 degrees Celsius (75 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit). The water's pH level should be between 6.0 and 8.0. The water hardness should be between 5 and 19 dGH.
