Labeo umbratus (Smith, 1841)
Moggel
Labeo umbratus
photo by Gratwicke, B.

Family:  Cyprinidae (Minnows or carps), subfamily: Labeoninae
Max. size:  50 cm TL (male/unsexed); max.weight: 2,853.0 g
Environment:  benthopelagic; freshwater, potamodromous
Distribution:  Africa: within the drainage basin of the Orange river and in southern watersheds of the Cape region. There are records of Labeo umbratus from the Olifant's river (Limpopo system) where it has been introduced by anglers. Has also been translocated in the Olifants-Limpopo system in Transvaal (Ref. 7248)
Diagnosis:   
Biology:  Closely resembles L. capensis in coloration and in having well developed anterior barbels. Survives temperatures below 10°C. Found mainly in standing waters, shallow dams and muddy shallow areas such as in large impoundments. Juveniles feed on small invertebrates while adults feed on detritus and mud. Valued as an important, nutritious food source and is recommended for use in wastewater aquaculture in combination with other aquatic organisms (Ref. 6465).
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 01 September 2017 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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