Fin's Fish Guide
The Weeks's labeo (Labeo weeksii) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 29 cm.
Fresh water of Central Africa, in the Congo basin, in clear, flowing rivers with stony bottoms.
Description
Weeks's labeo is a cyprinid of the family Cyprinidae reaching about 29 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 the Congo basin in 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 Weeks's labeo?
The Weeks's labeo has an elongate, eel-like 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 Weeks's labeo live?
The Weeks's labeo lives in fresh water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Fresh water of Central Africa, in the Congo basin, in clear, flowing rivers with stony bottoms.
How big does the Weeks's labeo get?
The Weeks's labeo grows to a maximum of about 29 cm.
Is the Weeks's labeo dangerous to humans?
No, the Weeks's labeo is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Weeks's labeo edible?
Yes, the Weeks's 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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