Fin's Fish Guide
The Redeye labeo (Labeo cylindricus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 25 cm.
Fresh water of eastern and southern Africa, in clear, flowing rivers with stony bottoms.
Description
The redeye labeo is a cyprinid of the family Cyprinidae reaching about 25 cm. The elongate, almost cylindrical body has conspicuously red eyes and an inferior sucker-mouth with fringed, horny lips, with which the fish scrapes algae and growth (aufwuchs) off stones. The species comes from eastern and southern Africa and lives in schools in clear, flowing rivers with stony bottoms. It grazes mainly algae and growth, supplemented with some detritus. In the rainy season it migrates upstream to spawn on gravel bars. Through its grazing it plays a role in the river ecosystem, and locally it is a valued food fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Redeye labeo?
The Redeye labeo has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Cylindrical cyprinid with an inferior sucker mouth with fringed lips, with which it scrapes biofilm from stones; strikingly red eyes.
Where does the Redeye labeo live?
The Redeye labeo lives in fresh water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Fresh water of eastern and southern Africa, in clear, flowing rivers with stony bottoms.
How big does the Redeye labeo get?
The Redeye labeo grows to a maximum of about 25 cm.
Is the Redeye labeo dangerous to humans?
No, the Redeye labeo is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Redeye labeo edible?
Yes, the Redeye labeo is commonly eaten.
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Status & sources
Same genus Labeo
More from the family Cyprinidae
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