Fin's Fish Guide
The Striped labeo (Labeo lineatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 78 cm.
Fresh water of Central Africa, in the Congo basin, in flowing, rocky rivers and creeks.
Description
The striped labeo is a large African cyprinid of the family Cyprinidae reaching about 78 cm. The elongate, brownish body has fine dark stripes along the scale rows and an inferior, sucker-like mouth with thick, folded lips and a horny edge, an adaptation for scraping growth off hard surfaces. The species comes from the Congo basin in Central Africa and lives on stony bottoms of flowing rivers and creeks. As a plant-eater it scrapes algae, growth and detritus off stones and wood, giving it a role in keeping the river bottom clean. In the rainy season it spawns, often after a migration upstream. With its size it is locally a valued food fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Striped labeo?
The Striped labeo has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Large African cyprinid with an inferior, sucker-like mouth and thick lips with which it scrapes biofilm off stones.
Where does the Striped labeo live?
The Striped labeo lives in fresh water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Fresh water of Central Africa, in the Congo basin, in flowing, rocky rivers and creeks.
How big does the Striped labeo get?
The Striped labeo grows to a maximum of about 78 cm.
Is the Striped labeo dangerous to humans?
No, the Striped labeo is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Striped labeo edible?
Yes, the Striped labeo is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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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 Striped labeo is one of 12,519 species in the app.