| Family: |
Mochokidae (Squeakers or upside-down catfishes), subfamily: Mochokinae |
| Max. size: |
15 cm SL (male/unsexed) |
| Environment: |
benthopelagic; freshwater |
| Distribution: |
Africa: Middle and lower Zambezi River System (Ref. 7248, 52193) and Buzi River (Ref. 52193). |
| Diagnosis: |
Dorsal spines (total): 1-1; Dorsal soft rays (total): 7-7; Anal spines: 0-0; Anal soft rays: 12-15. Description: Body slender, tapered (Ref. 52193). Mandibular teeth 12-24 in a narrow band; premaxillary toothpad broad, with 24-35 primary teeth on narrow ventral shelf; barbels short, maxillary barbels with smooth leading edge, branches of mandibulars short and stubby (Ref. 52193). Humeral process pointed, with convex margin in adults (Ref. 52193). Dorsal fin with 1 spine and 7 soft rays; anal fin with 5-6 unbranched and 7-9 branched rays; caudal fin shallowly forked (Ref. 52193). Colouration: Brown with large dark brown or yellowish brown blotches on body; fins spotted (Ref. 52193). |
| Biology: |
Prefers floodplain to riverine habitats but does occur in rocky areas where habitats are restricted (Ref. 52193). It feeds on typical squeaker diet of detritus, algae and benthic invertebrates (Ref. 52193). Oviparous (Ref. 205). Distinct pairing during breeding (Ref. 205). Lives for 4 or 5 years (Ref. 7248). |
| IUCN Red List Status: |
Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 06 February 2006 Ref. (130435)
|
| Threat to humans: |
harmless |
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