Fin's Fish Guide
The Epiros riffle dace (Telestes pleurobipunctatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 18 cm.
The species lives in the fresh water of western Greece and southern Albania, in clear, flowing rivers and streams with a gravel bottom.
Description
The epiros riffle dace is a slender cyprinid of the family Cyprinidae (Leuciscidae) reaching about 18 cm. The streamlined, silvery-grey body often bears a dark lengthwise stripe along the flank. The species lives in the fresh water of western Greece and southern Albania, in clear, flowing rivers and streams with gravel bottoms. In schools it feeds on insect larvae, small crustaceans, algae and plant material. In spring it spawns in shallow, flowing water on gravel. The Balkans are a hotspot of endemic daces and cyprinids, with many species confined to a single drainage or even a single karst field, making them sensitive to water pollution, dams and water abstraction.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Epiros riffle dace?
The Epiros riffle dace has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Slender cyprinid with a dark longitudinal stripe along the silver flank; adapted to the clear, flowing karst rivers of the Balkans.
Where does the Epiros riffle dace live?
The Epiros riffle dace lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. The species lives in the fresh water of western Greece and southern Albania, in clear, flowing rivers and streams with a gravel bottom.
How big does the Epiros riffle dace get?
The Epiros riffle dace grows to a maximum of about 18 cm.
Is the Epiros riffle dace dangerous to humans?
No, the Epiros riffle dace is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Epiros riffle dace edible?
The Epiros riffle dace is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
Same genus Telestes
More from the family Cyprinidae
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