The Top Plain Squeaker (*Synodontis eupterus*), also known as the featherfin squeaker, is a species of catfish native to the freshwater rivers and lakes of West and Central Africa, particularly within the Nile, Chad, Niger, and Volta basins. Recognized for its distinctive long, feathery dorsal fin and its ability to produce squeaking sounds by rubbing its pectoral fins against its body, the plain squeaker is primarily targeted by small-scale and artisanal fisheries rather than large commercial operations. The main countries involved in harvesting this species include Nigeria, Ghana, Cameroon, and Sudan, where it is valued both as a food source and, increasingly, in the ornamental aquarium trade. While not a major export commodity compared to larger catfish species, the plain squeaker contributes to local economies and food security, with fishing practices typically involving nets and traps in riverine environments.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Zimbabwe | 13 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.