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European bullhead
Groppe
Scientific name: Cottus gobio
Behavior
A typical small bottom-dwelling fish with weak swimming ability. Lives mainly in clear, oxygen-rich, relatively fast-flowing streams and small rivers. Hides under stones or roots by day, feeding on small aquatic animals, fish eggs, and fry. Spawns in April-May under stones, with males guarding the eggs. Listed in Annex II of the EU Habitats Directive.
Features
10-15 cm long, club-shaped body, broad flat head. Lacks a swim bladder, moving along the bottom in a "hopping" fashion using its large pectoral fins. Limestone-grey to brown in colour.
Distribution
Found across almost all of Europe. In Germany present in every state except Berlin and Bremen, concentrated in low mountain regions such as the Black Forest and Odenwald in Baden-Württemberg and the Ore Mountains in Saxony. Listed as "Least Concern" on Germany's Red List.