Fin's Fish Guide
The European grayling (Thymallus thymallus) is a freshwater fish of the family Salmonidae that grows up to 60 cm.
Widespread in fresh water of Europe, in cool, fast-flowing and oxygen-rich rivers and streams (the grayling zone).
Description
The European grayling is a graceful salmonid of the family Salmonidae reaching about 60 cm. The streamlined, silvery-grey body has an adipose fin between the dorsal and tail fins and, very characteristically, a strikingly large, colourful, sail-like dorsal fin, especially in males. Freshly caught the fish smells of thyme, from which it takes its scientific name Thymallus. The grayling lives in cool, fast-flowing, oxygen-rich rivers and streams of Europe, in the grayling zone named after it, and is regarded as an indicator of clean water. It hunts insect larvae, flying insects from the surface and small crustaceans. In spring it spawns on gravel. The grayling is a popular, choosy target for fly fishing.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the European grayling?
The European grayling has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Salmonid with an adipose fin and a strikingly large, colourful, sail-shaped dorsal fin; smells of thyme when freshly caught (hence the name Thymallus).
Where does the European grayling live?
The European grayling lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Widespread in fresh water of Europe, in cool, fast-flowing and oxygen-rich rivers and streams (the grayling zone).
How big does the European grayling get?
The European grayling grows to a maximum of about 60 cm. On average the species is around 30 cm.
Is the European grayling dangerous to humans?
No, the European grayling is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the European grayling edible?
Yes, the European grayling is a highly prized food fish.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the European grayling and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Thymallus
More from the family Salmonidae
Want the complete picture on the European grayling?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the European grayling is one of 12,519 species in the app.