Fin's Fish Guide
The Huchen (Hucho hucho) is a freshwater fish of the family Salmonidae that grows up to 150 cm.
Fresh water of the Danube basin in Central and South-Eastern Europe, in large, fast-flowing, cool and oxygen-rich rivers.
Description
The huchen or Danube salmon is a large, elongate salmonid of the family Salmonidae reaching about 1.5 metres and the largest predator of the Danube. The streamlined body has a coppery sheen, small, often X-shaped dark spots and an adipose fin between the dorsal and tail fins. Unlike many relatives the huchen is a pure freshwater fish that lives year-round in large, fast-flowing, cool rivers of the Danube drainage. As an apex predator it hunts mainly cyprinids, but also amphibians, rodents and large invertebrates. In spring it migrates upstream to spawn on gravel. Through dams, river pollution and habitat loss the species has declined sharply and is assessed as Endangered (EN); it is a prized, strictly protected sport fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Huchen?
The Huchen has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Large, elongate salmonid with an adipose fin, a copper-coloured sheen and small, X-shaped dark blotches; the largest predator of the Danube.
Where does the Huchen live?
The Huchen lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Fresh water of the Danube basin in Central and South-Eastern Europe, in large, fast-flowing, cool and oxygen-rich rivers.
How big does the Huchen get?
The Huchen grows to a maximum of about 150 cm. On average the species is around 70 cm.
Is the Huchen dangerous to humans?
No, the Huchen is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Huchen edible?
Yes, the Huchen is a highly prized food fish.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Hucho
More from the family Salmonidae
Want the complete picture on the Huchen?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Huchen is one of 12,519 species in the app.