Synodontis is the largest genus within the 10 genera and 190 different species in the family Mochokidae most commonly found throughout Africa, occurring mostly in Central and West Africa. Synodontis are also known as squeakers, due to their ability to make stridulatory sounds through their pectoral fin spines when handled or disturbed. These catfish are small- to medium-sized fish with many species exhibiting attractive spotted markings. Some species are also known for naturally swimming belly-up, earning the name upside-down catfish