Bata Labeo (Local Bhagon-ভাঙন)

The Bata labeo, also known simply as bata, is a small to medium-sized fish in the carp family, reaching up to 14 inches long. Imagine a sleek, slightly flattened body with a blunt snout. That's the bata labeo! It has two interesting features: a pair of tiny barbells near its mouth, and another pair on its snout, helping it navigate and forage for food. The scales on its back shimmer with shades of olive green or silvery-grey, transitioning to a lighter shade on its belly. This freshwater fish is a common resident of rivers and ponds throughout India and Bangladesh.