Fin's Fish Guide
The Softfin yellowfish (Labeobarbus malacanthus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
The Softfin yellowfish is a large African barb or yellowfish (Cyprinidae) from fresh water of the Congo basin in Central Africa. The species grows to about 40 cm and has an elongate, silvery to yellow-brown body with large scales and barbels. As a powerful bottom-oriented fish it lives in flowing rivers and lakes and eats algae, water plants, insects, molluscs and small animals. It is a valued sport and food fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Softfin yellowfish?
The Softfin yellowfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Robust barb with large scales; bottom omnivore from rivers of Gabon and Equatorial Guinea.
Where does the Softfin yellowfish live?
The Softfin yellowfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. West-Central Africa; rivers.
How big does the Softfin yellowfish get?
The Softfin yellowfish grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Softfin yellowfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Softfin yellowfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Softfin yellowfish edible?
Yes, the Softfin yellowfish is commonly eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Softfin yellowfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Softfin yellowfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
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 Softfin yellowfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Softfin yellowfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.