Fin's Fish Guide
The Adriatic trout (Salmo obtusirostris) is a freshwater fish of the family Salmonidae that grows up to 70 cm.
Endemic to the Dinaric karst rivers of Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro, in cool, clear and oxygen-rich flowing water with a gravel bottom.
Description
The Adriatic or softmouth trout is a trout of the family Salmonidae reaching about 70 cm. Like other trout it has a streamlined body with an adipose fin between the dorsal and tail fins and dark and reddish spots, but it stands out for a short, blunt snout and a small, soft mouth (hence the name softmouth trout). It represents an ancient, distinct lineage within the trout. The species is endemic to the clear, cool karst rivers of the Dinaric Alps in Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro, such as the Neretva, Krka and Jadro. It hunts insect larvae, surface insects, small crustaceans and small fish. Through dams, water pollution and hybridisation with introduced brown trout it has declined sharply and is assessed as Endangered (EN).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Adriatic trout?
The Adriatic trout has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Trout relative with an adipose fin, a short, blunt snout and a small, soft mouth; an ancient, distinct lineage of the Dinaric karst rivers.
Where does the Adriatic trout live?
The Adriatic trout lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Endemic to the Dinaric karst rivers of Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro, in cool, clear and oxygen-rich flowing water with a gravel bottom.
How big does the Adriatic trout get?
The Adriatic trout grows to a maximum of about 70 cm.
Is the Adriatic trout dangerous to humans?
No, the Adriatic trout is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Adriatic trout edible?
Yes, the Adriatic trout is a highly prized food fish.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Salmo
More from the family Salmonidae
Want the complete picture on the Adriatic trout?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Adriatic trout is one of 12,519 species in the app.