Mochokidae

Mochokidae is a family of freshwater catfishes native to Africa, commonly referred to as squeaker catfishes or upside-down catfishes. They belong to the order Siluriformes and are represented by two subfamilies: Mochokinae and Chiloglanidinae. The Mochokinae include the widely known genus Synodontis and related genera, while the Chiloglanidinae comprises the sucker-mouth catfishes, including the genus Chiloglanis.

Synodontis species are among the best known mochokids, with several taxa noted for their distinctive swimming behavior, including upside-down postures used during foraging. The Chiloglanidinae are characterized by specialized mouths forming suction cups that enable them to cling to rocks in faster-flowing waters.

Distribution and habitat: Mochokids are distributed throughout sub-Saharan Africa, inhabiting a range of freshwater environments such as rivers, streams, lakes, and swamps. They occupy diverse habitats from still to moderately flowing waters and are generally nocturnal, often hiding during the day.

Description: Members of Mochokidae typically have barbels, a flattened head, and a body adapted to bottom-dwelling life. Many lack true scales or possess reduced skin coverings. A humeral process on the shoulder girdle is a common diagnostic feature, and dorsal and pectoral fins often bear stout spines. The group includes both upside-down swimmers and suction-cup feeders.

Ecology and behavior: Mochokids are primarily omnivorous, feeding on algae, detritus, invertebrates, and small animals. The Chiloglanidinae use their suction mouths to cling to substrates in fast-flowing waters.

Reproduction and conservation: Reproductive modes vary among species; most are egg-layers with external fertilization, and some exhibit parental care or guarding behaviors in certain taxa. Many mochokids are kept in the aquarium trade, and their conservation status ranges from common to threatened, depending on species and habitat conditions.