Moggel (Labeo umbratus) is a freshwater African fish in genus Labeo. It occurs within the drainage basin of the Orange River. The species has been recorded in the, Olifants River in Mpumalanga and Limpopo, introduced there by anglers.
This species is similar to L. capensis in colour and in its pronounced anterior barbels. It can withstand temperatures below 10 °C and is mainly found in stagnant water, muddy dams and in large impoundments. Juveniles of the species prey on invertebrates while adults subsist on detritus and mud. It is an important food source and is considered a useful species in wastewater aquaculture when combined with other aquatic organisms.
Length: 500mm. Weight: 2.9KG
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.
The Moggel breed after rains in summer, migrating upstream to suitable spawning sites, usually over flooded grassy banks of rivers with shallow rocky sections. Female lays about 250 000 small sticky eggs which attach to grass and rocks, they hatch after 40 hours thereafter the newly hatched larvae repeatedly swim to the surface and get carried away by the current to deeper water.
