Fin's Fish Guide
The Don ruffe (Gymnocephalus acerina) is a freshwater fish of the family Percidae that grows up to 21 cm.
Fresh water of the basins of the Black and Azov Seas, in slow- to moderately flowing lower reaches of rivers such as the Don and the Dnieper.
Description
The Don ruffe is a perch-like bottom fish of the family Percidae reaching about 21 cm. It resembles the common ruffe but has a longer, pointed snout; the yellow-brown body is covered with small dark spots and bears a continuous, spiny dorsal fin. The species lives in the fresh water of the Black and Azov Sea drainages, in slow to moderately flowing lower reaches of rivers such as the Don and the Dnieper. Mainly at night it searches the bottom for insect larvae, small crustaceans, worms and fish eggs. In spring it spawns on sand and gravel, where the eggs stick to the substrate. Through river works and water pollution it has declined locally, though globally it is assessed as Least Concern.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Don ruffe?
The Don ruffe has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a spots pattern. Perch-like bottom fish with a long, pointed snout and a continuous, spiny dorsal fin; yellow-brown body with small dark blotches.
Where does the Don ruffe live?
The Don ruffe lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Fresh water of the basins of the Black and Azov Seas, in slow- to moderately flowing lower reaches of rivers such as the Don and the Dnieper.
How big does the Don ruffe get?
The Don ruffe grows to a maximum of about 21 cm.
Is the Don ruffe dangerous to humans?
No, the Don ruffe is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Don ruffe edible?
The Don ruffe is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Gymnocephalus
More from the family Percidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Don ruffe is one of 12,519 species in the app.