Labeo parvus (African Carps)

(Source: Fishbase, 2019)

Scientific Name: Labeo parvus

Common Name: African Carps

Genus: Labeo

Species: parvus

Ijaw Name: Kopio

Family: Cyprinidae

Habitat: Rivers

Gear Type: Fishing Net

Season of Occurrence: Raining season

Description: The African Carps, a species of freshwater fish from the genus Labeo, is commonly found across various river basins in West and Central Africa, including the Congo River system. Adapted to tropical climates, it inhabits areas with stony riverbeds and streams. Labeo parvus reaches a length of around 15 cm and displays distinctive characteristics, such as a broad sucker-like mouth and the ability to change its coloration, often appearing with a striped or darker color pattern depending on conditions. Known for its peaceful nature compared to other Labeo species, it can thrive either alone or in larger groups. Its diet mainly consists of algae, making it a beneficial species for aquariums as a natural algae cleaner, though it is generally not sought after for commercial fisheries.