Back to species list
Photo/video material for this species is still being prepared.
Roach
Rotauge
Scientific name: Rutilus rutilus
NativeFreshwater
Behavior
Prefers plant-rich still waters, usually in small shoals. Tolerates organic pollution well and is often one of the last species to disappear from polluted waters. Also tolerates slightly brackish water.
Features
Fairly small, yellow-green with red eyes and pale red fins. Feeds heavily in summer, barely at all in winter. Females can lay up to 100,000 eggs.
Distribution
Widespread across Europe (except Spain, Italy, Greece, and Ireland) and western Asia. Very common in Germany and a standard species in fishing licence exams.