Fin's Fish Guide
The Mucise (Labeo congoro) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 42 cm.
Description
The purple labeo (Labeo congoro) is an African cyprinid of the family Cyprinidae from the Zambezi system and rivers of eastern Africa. The species has a streamlined, dark purplish-grey body with a ventral, sucker-like mouth with fleshy lips, and reaches about 41 cm. It lives in strong-flowing, rocky stretches of larger perennial rivers. With its rasping mouth it grazes algae and aufwuchs from rocks and hard surfaces, including even the backs of hippos, on which it leaves characteristic scraping tracks. The species undertakes spawning migrations and is locally a valued food and angling fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Mucise?
The Mucise has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Sucker-like mouth to scrape biofilm, even off the backs of hippopotamuses.
Where does the Mucise live?
The Mucise lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. The Zambezi system and rivers of eastern Africa.
How big does the Mucise get?
The Mucise grows to a maximum of about 42 cm.
Is the Mucise dangerous to humans?
No, the Mucise is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Mucise edible?
Yes, the Mucise is commonly eaten.
More photos
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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
Want the complete picture on the Mucise?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Mucise is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone