Fin's Fish Guide
The Bates's labeo (Labeo batesii) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 25 cm.
Description
Bates's labeo is an African cyprinid from West-Central Africa, including coastal rivers of Cameroon. The species grows to about 25 cm and has a streamlined body with an inferior, sucker-like mouth with fleshy lips. It inhabits rivers with flowing water, where it clings to stones and scrapes algae, periphyton and detritus with its rasping suckermouth. Labeo species play a role in grazing growth in rivers. The species is eaten locally and is of limited fishery importance. Bates's labeo is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bates's labeo?
The Bates's labeo has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Inferior suction-cup mouth for scraping biofilm off stones in flowing water.
Where does the Bates's labeo live?
The Bates's labeo lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. West-Central Africa; rivers with flowing water (including Cameroon).
How big does the Bates's labeo get?
The Bates's labeo grows to a maximum of about 25 cm.
Is the Bates's labeo dangerous to humans?
No, the Bates's labeo is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Bates's labeo edible?
The Bates's labeo is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Labeo
More from the family Cyprinidae
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