Fin's Fish Guide
The Orange River labeo (Labeo capensis) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 50 cm.
Description
The Orange River labeo is a cyprinid (Cyprinidae) from the Orange-Vaal drainage in southern Africa. The species grows to about 50 cm and has a streamlined, dark body with an inferior, sucking mouth with fleshy lips with which it rasps algae and growth from stones. As a bottom-oriented grazer it lives in rivers and dams and eats aufwuchs, algae and detritus. It is a food fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Orange River labeo?
The Orange River labeo has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Orange River labeo live?
The Orange River labeo lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Africa: Namibia, South Africa
How big does the Orange River labeo get?
The Orange River labeo grows to a maximum of about 50 cm. On average the species is around 45 cm.
Is the Orange River labeo dangerous to humans?
No, the Orange River labeo is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
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
Want the complete picture on the Orange River labeo?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Orange River labeo is one of 12,519 species in the app.