Fin's Fish Guide
The Iberian roach (Squalius alburnoides) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 25 cm.
Endemic to the fresh water of the Iberian Peninsula, in slow to moderately flowing rivers and streams of both Atlantic and Mediterranean basins.
Description
The Iberian roach or calandino is a small, slender cyprinid of the family Cyprinidae (Leuciscidae) reaching about 25 cm. The silvery-grey body often bears a dark lengthwise stripe along the flank. The species is scientifically famous as a hybridogenetic complex: it arose from hybridisation of several cyprinids and reproduces partly clonally, with populations made up of different combinations of parental genomes. It is endemic to the fresh water of the Iberian Peninsula and lives in schools in slow to moderately flowing rivers and streams. As an omnivore it eats insect larvae, small crustaceans, algae and plant material, and it tolerates warm, oxygen-poor summer conditions. Through its broad tolerance it is locally common and is assessed as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Iberian roach?
The Iberian roach has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Small, slender cyprinid with a dark longitudinal stripe; notorious as a hybridogenetic species complex with partly clonal reproduction.
Where does the Iberian roach live?
The Iberian roach lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Endemic to the fresh water of the Iberian Peninsula, in slow to moderately flowing rivers and streams of both Atlantic and Mediterranean basins.
How big does the Iberian roach get?
The Iberian roach grows to a maximum of about 25 cm. On average the species is around 15 cm.
Is the Iberian roach dangerous to humans?
No, the Iberian roach is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Iberian roach edible?
The Iberian roach is not usually eaten.
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Same genus Squalius
More from the family Cyprinidae
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