The Blaufelchen (Coregonus wartmanni) is a freshwater fish of the family Salmonidae that grows up to 50 cm.
The species is endemic to Lake Constance, where it lives as a pelagic whitefish in shoals in open water and spawns on the bottom or in open water.
Description
The blaufelchen is a slender whitefish of the family Salmonidae reaching about 50 cm. The streamlined, silvery body has a blue-grey back and an adipose fin between the dorsal and tail fins, characteristic of the salmonids. The species is endemic to Lake Constance, where as a pelagic whitefish it lives in schools in the open water and spawns on the bottom or in midwater. In open water it filters zooplankton, mainly water fleas and copepods. The whitefish form a taxonomically difficult complex, with many lakes holding their own, often endemic forms that spawn in different seasons and at different depths. With its fine flesh it is locally a valued commercial and sport fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blaufelchen?
The Blaufelchen has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Slender, silver salmonid with an adipose fin between the dorsal and caudal fins; a whitefish that lives in shoals in cool, deep lake water.
Where does the Blaufelchen live?
The Blaufelchen lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. The species is endemic to Lake Constance, where it lives as a pelagic whitefish in shoals in open water and spawns on the bottom or in open water.
How big does the Blaufelchen get?
The Blaufelchen grows to a maximum of about 50 cm.
Is the Blaufelchen dangerous to humans?
No, the Blaufelchen is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Blaufelchen edible?
Yes, the Blaufelchen is commonly eaten.
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All data
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Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
Same genus Coregonus
More from the family Salmonidae

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