Fin's Fish Guide
The Albanian roach (Pachychilon pictum) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 18 cm.
Fresh water of the western Balkans, in lakes such as Lake Ohrid and Lake Skadar and connected rivers with slow- to moderately flowing water.
Description
The Albanian roach is a stocky cyprinid of the family Cyprinidae reaching about 18 cm. The silvery-grey body has a dark back and conspicuously thick lips; the species is endemic to the fresh water of the western Balkans, in famous lakes such as Lake Ohrid and Lake Skadar and connected rivers. In schools it lives in slow to moderately flowing water. As an omnivore it grazes algae and seeks small invertebrates, insect larvae and plant material. In spring and summer it spawns in shallow, vegetated water, where the eggs stick to plants and stones. Locally it is a common fish landed by small-scale fisheries and eaten. Because of its limited range it is sensitive to water pollution and introduced exotics.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Albanian roach?
The Albanian roach has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Stocky cyprinid with thick lips and a dark back; endemic to the lakes and rivers of the western Balkans.
Where does the Albanian roach live?
The Albanian roach lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Fresh water of the western Balkans, in lakes such as Lake Ohrid and Lake Skadar and connected rivers with slow- to moderately flowing water.
How big does the Albanian roach get?
The Albanian roach grows to a maximum of about 18 cm.
Is the Albanian roach dangerous to humans?
No, the Albanian roach is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Albanian roach edible?
Yes, the Albanian roach is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pachychilon
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Albanian roach?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Albanian roach is one of 12,519 species in the app.