Fin's Fish Guide
The Ide (Leuciscus idus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 85 cm.
Widespread in fresh and slightly brackish water of Europe and North Asia, in larger rivers, canals and lakes.
Description
The ide is a robust, slender cyprinid of the family Cyprinidae reaching about 85 cm. The silvery body has a fairly thick head with a small, terminal mouth; in the breeding season the pelvic and anal fins turn reddish. The well-known ornamental form, the golden orfe, is bright orange and widely kept in ponds. The species lives in schools in larger rivers, canals and lakes of Europe and northern Asia, including slightly brackish water. As an omnivore it eats insects, crustaceans, snails, plant matter and sometimes small fish. In spring it spawns en masse in shallow, flowing water. The ide is a strong, wary fish and a valued challenge for anglers.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Ide?
The Ide has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Large, slender cyprinid with a fairly thick head, small mouth and, in the spawning season, reddish pelvic and anal fins; the cultivated form 'golden orfe' is orange.
Where does the Ide live?
The Ide lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Widespread in fresh and slightly brackish water of Europe and North Asia, in larger rivers, canals and lakes.
How big does the Ide get?
The Ide grows to a maximum of about 85 cm. On average the species is around 30 cm.
Is the Ide dangerous to humans?
No, the Ide is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Ide edible?
The Ide is rarely eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Ide 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 Leuciscus
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Ide?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Ide is one of 12,519 species in the app.