Fin's Fish Guide
The Congo labeo (Labeo barbatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 56 cm.
Central Africa; middle and lower reaches of the Congo basin with fast-flowing water.
Description
The Congo labeo is an African cyprinid from the Congo basin in Central Africa. The species grows to about 56 cm and has a streamlined body with an inferior, sucker-like mouth with fleshy lips. It occurs in the middle and lower reaches of the Congo basin with fast-flowing water, where it clings to stones. With its rasping suckermouth it scrapes algae, periphyton and detritus from the substrate. Labeo species graze the growth in rivers and can be locally abundant. The Congo labeo is a valued food fish and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Congo labeo?
The Congo 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 fast-flowing Congo water.
Where does the Congo labeo live?
The Congo labeo lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Central Africa; middle and lower reaches of the Congo basin with fast-flowing water.
How big does the Congo labeo get?
The Congo labeo grows to a maximum of about 56 cm.
Is the Congo labeo dangerous to humans?
No, the Congo labeo is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Congo labeo edible?
Yes, the Congo labeo is commonly eaten.
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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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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Congo labeo is one of 12,519 species in the app.