Fin's Fish Guide
The Congo labeo (Labeo annectens) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 18 cm.
Fresh water of Central Africa, in the Congo basin, in flowing, rocky rivers and creeks.
Description
The Congo labeo is a sturdy African cyprinid of the family Cyprinidae reaching about 18 cm. The elongate, brownish body has an inferior, sucker-like mouth with thick, folded lips and a horny edge, an adaptation for scraping growth off hard surfaces. The species comes from the Congo basin in Central Africa and lives on stony bottoms of flowing rivers and creeks. As a plant-eater it scrapes algae, growth and detritus off stones and wood, giving it a role in keeping the river bottom clean. In the rainy season it spawns, often after a migration upstream. With its size it is locally a valued food fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Congo labeo?
The Congo labeo has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Sturdy African cyprinid with an inferior, sucker-like mouth and thick lips with which it scrapes biofilm off stones.
Where does the Congo labeo live?
The Congo labeo lives in fresh water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Fresh water of Central Africa, in the Congo basin, in flowing, rocky rivers and creeks.
How big does the Congo labeo get?
The Congo labeo grows to a maximum of about 18 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
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Status & sources
Same genus Labeo
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Congo labeo?
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.