Fin's Fish Guide
The Nile labeo (Labeo niloticus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 63 cm.
Description
The Nile labeo is a cyprinid (Cyprinidae) from the fresh waters of Africa. The species has a streamlined, dark body with an inferior, sucker-like mouth with fleshy lips, with which it scrapes growth from the bottom. It inhabits rivers and lakes, including the Nile, and sometimes migrates upstream to spawn. It feeds on algae, diatoms, detritus and organic bottom material. It is a valued food fish. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Nile labeo?
The Nile labeo has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Inferior suction-cup mouth for scraping biofilm; valued food fish of the Nile.
Where does the Nile labeo live?
The Nile labeo lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Freshwater of Africa; rivers and lakes, including the Nile.
How big does the Nile labeo get?
The Nile labeo grows to a maximum of about 63 cm.
Is the Nile labeo dangerous to humans?
No, the Nile labeo is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Nile labeo edible?
Yes, the Nile labeo is commonly 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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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Nile labeo is one of 12,519 species in the app.