Fin's Fish Guide
The Largescale yellowfish (Labeobarbus marequensis) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 47 cm.
Fresh water of southern Africa (including the Limpopo and Incomati basins), in flowing, rocky rivers and creeks.
Description
The largescale yellowfish is a sturdy, golden African cyprinid of the family Cyprinidae reaching about 47 cm. The body has large, shiny scales, a yellow to bronze glow, two pairs of barbels and an inferior mouth with thick lips, with which the fish takes prey and growth off the bottom. The species comes from flowing, rocky rivers of southern Africa, including the Limpopo and Incomati basins. As an omnivore it eats insect larvae, snails, crustaceans, algae and plant matter. In the rainy season it migrates upstream to spawn over gravel. With its size and fighting spirit it is a sporting, valued angling fish and locally a food fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Largescale yellowfish?
The Largescale yellowfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a plain pattern. Sturdy, golden African cyprinid with large scales, two pairs of barbels and thick lips.
Where does the Largescale yellowfish live?
The Largescale yellowfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Fresh water of southern Africa (including the Limpopo and Incomati basins), in flowing, rocky rivers and creeks.
How big does the Largescale yellowfish get?
The Largescale yellowfish grows to a maximum of about 47 cm.
Is the Largescale yellowfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Largescale yellowfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Largescale yellowfish edible?
Yes, the Largescale yellowfish is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Labeobarbus
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Largescale yellowfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Largescale yellowfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.