Rudd
Scardinius erythrophthalmus
Also known as: European Rudd, Pearl Roach, Redeye Roach, Redfin, Eurasian Rudd
About This Species
A schooling cyprinid found in still or slow-flowing lowland waters across Europe, often near reed beds, lily pads and other cover where it feeds close to the surface on insects and plant matter. Look for golden-bronze flanks and bright red fins flashing as fish rise to take food near dawn and dusk in warmer months. Shoals are easiest to spot in clear, weedy margins on calm days.
Ethical Viewing Guidelines
- As a widely distributed and abundant species it carries no special protection, but anglers and waders should follow local fishing regulations and avoid disturbing spawning fish in shallow margins during late spring.
- Where introduced outside its native range it is sometimes considered invasive, so check local guidance before moving or releasing any fish.
LCNaNCypriniformesCyprinidae
Seasonal Activity
166,527 sightings · 2000–2026
Citizen science records via GBIF
All monthsThis month
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- NaN
- Order
- Cypriniformes
- Family
- Cyprinidae
Photo
(c) Iidkk, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA)
CC-BY-SA-4.0
Occurrence data from GBIF.