Fin's Fish Guide
The Upper Zambezi labeo (Labeo lunatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 40 cm.
Description
The upper Zambezi labeo is a cyprinid (Cyprinidae) from southern Africa. The species has a streamlined body with an inferior, fleshy sucker mouth with horny edges, with which it scrapes the growth layer from the bottom. It occurs over rocks in the mainstream and in large, soft-bottomed floodplain lagoons. As a bottom grazer it feeds on algae, aufwuchs and detritus. It is a shoaling species that spawns in the rainy season. It is a local food fish and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Upper Zambezi labeo?
The Upper Zambezi labeo has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Fleshy sucker mouth with horny edges; schooling bottom grazer of the Zambezi and Okavango.
Where does the Upper Zambezi labeo live?
The Upper Zambezi labeo lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Southern Africa; main stem and flood lagoons of rivers.
How big does the Upper Zambezi labeo get?
The Upper Zambezi labeo grows to a maximum of about 40 cm.
Is the Upper Zambezi labeo dangerous to humans?
No, the Upper Zambezi labeo is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Upper Zambezi labeo edible?
Yes, the Upper Zambezi labeo is commonly eaten.
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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
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Upper Zambezi labeo is one of 12,519 species in the app.