Harlequin sharkminnow
📖 Overview
Harlequin sharkminnow (Labeo cyclorhynchus), first described by Boulenger, 1899 is a medium-sized fish in the family Cyprinidae (order Cypriniformes). Adults typically reach 16.00 cm in maximum length. It inhabits freshwater systems including rivers, streams, and lakes. It occurs in Tropical waters. On the IUCN Red List, it is classified as Least Concern.The species is important as a food fish, kept in the aquarium hobby, and considered a sustainable seafood option under current management. As a member of the Cyprinidae, it shares life-history and morphological traits with its relatives in the group.
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal soft rays (total): 12; Vertebrae: 31 - 32. Lips with transverse plicae; the upper edge of dorsal fin falciform or deeply concave; two pairs of well-developed barbels present .
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Harlequin sharkminnow is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
🥚 Reproduction
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Freshwater; benthopelagic. Tropical; 21°C - 27°C Central African Republic, and in the Ogowe river in Gabon (Ref.
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🍽️ Edibility & Flavour
"Harlequin sharkminnow is an edible species."
- Clear, bright eyes — cloudy eyes indicate age
- Firm flesh that springs back when pressed
- Fresh ocean smell, never strong or ammonia-like
- Bright red or pink gills, not grey or brown
- Shiny, moist skin with scales tightly attached
- Cloudy or sunken eyes
- Strong fishy or ammonia odour
- Soft, mushy flesh that doesn't spring back
- Discoloured or dry flesh
⚡ Nutrition
Detailed nutritional data for Harlequin sharkminnow is currently being compiled from USDA FoodData Central.
🔬 Mercury Safety
Mercury data for Harlequin sharkminnow has not yet been assigned. Please consult FDA/EPA guidance for general seafood safety advice.
🌿 Sustainability
🔬 Full Nutritional Profile
Per 100g - Raw, per 100g - Source: USDA FoodData Central templates (generic fish average)
📊 Population Dynamics
| Year | Region | Index | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| - | - | - |
🌐 Names & Taxonomy
Scientific Synonyms
| Scientific Name | Author | Year | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Labeo cyclorhynchus variegata | Pellegrin | 1901 | Synonym |
| Labeo variegatus | Pellegrin | 1901 | Synonym |
🦠 Common Diseases
The following diseases are known to affect Harlequin sharkminnow.
🔍 Similar Species
🗺️ Global Occurrence Map
Occurrence records from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) - 44 records indexed .
👥 Community & Contribute
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