Fin's Fish Guide
The Cactus roach (Rutilus virgo) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 40 cm.
Endemic to the Danube river basin upstream of the Iron Gates in Central Europe, in moderately to fast-flowing rivers and connected lakes.
Description
The cactus roach or Frauennerfling is a slender cyprinid of the family Cyprinidae (Leuciscidae) reaching about 40 cm. It resembles a large roach, with a silvery-grey body and yellowish fins. The species is endemic to the Danube drainage upstream of the Iron Gate in central Europe, where it lives in schools in moderately to fast-flowing rivers and connected lakes. As an omnivore it eats molluscs, insect larvae, crustaceans and plant material. In spring it migrates upstream to spawn on gravel; the male then develops a conspicuously dense, spiny breeding rash on the head, to which the English name 'cactus roach' refers. Through river works, dams and water pollution it has declined and is assessed as Near Threatened (NT).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Cactus roach?
The Cactus roach has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Slender cyprinid that resembles the roach; in the spawning season the male develops a dense, prickly spawning rash (hence 'cactus').
Where does the Cactus roach live?
The Cactus roach lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Endemic to the Danube river basin upstream of the Iron Gates in Central Europe, in moderately to fast-flowing rivers and connected lakes.
How big does the Cactus roach get?
The Cactus roach grows to a maximum of about 40 cm.
Is the Cactus roach dangerous to humans?
No, the Cactus roach is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Cactus roach edible?
The Cactus roach is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Rutilus
More from the family Cyprinidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Cactus roach is one of 12,519 species in the app.