Fin's Fish Guide
The Smallmouth labeo (Labeo parvus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 38 cm.
Fresh water of West and Central Africa, in clear, flowing rivers with stony bottoms.
Description
The smallmouth labeo is a cyprinid of the family Cyprinidae reaching about 38 cm. The elongate body has an inferior sucker-mouth with fringed, horny lips, with which the fish scrapes algae and growth (aufwuchs) off stones; small barbels sit at the corners of the mouth. The species comes from West and Central 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. 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 Smallmouth labeo?
The Smallmouth labeo has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Cyprinid with an inferior sucking mouth with fringed lips, with which it scrapes biofilm off stones in flowing water.
Where does the Smallmouth labeo live?
The Smallmouth labeo lives in fresh water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Fresh water of West and Central Africa, in clear, flowing rivers with stony bottoms.
How big does the Smallmouth labeo get?
The Smallmouth labeo grows to a maximum of about 38 cm.
Is the Smallmouth labeo dangerous to humans?
No, the Smallmouth labeo is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Smallmouth labeo edible?
Yes, the Smallmouth labeo is commonly eaten.
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All data
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Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
Same genus Labeo
More from the family Cyprinidae
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