Fin's Fish Guide
The Oily gudgeon (Sarcocheilichthys variegatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 15 cm.
East Asia (Japan), in clear rivers and streams with gravel and stone bottoms.
Description
The oily gudgeon is a small cyprinid of the family Gobionidae reaching about 15 cm. The stocky, brownish body bears mottled, marbled blotches and has an inferior mouth with a small barbel, with which the fish scrapes growth and small prey from the bottom. Breeding males colour up vividly with dark and yellow-pink tints. The species comes from Japan and lives in clear rivers and streams with gravel and stone bottoms. Like bitterlings it lays its eggs in the gill cavity of living freshwater mussels, where the larvae grow up sheltered. It is a common river fish and occasionally appears in the coldwater aquarium hobby.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Oily gudgeon?
The Oily gudgeon has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Small cyprinid fish with an inferior mouth and bright, marbled blotches; the male colours up brightly in the spawning season.
Where does the Oily gudgeon live?
The Oily gudgeon lives in fresh water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. East Asia (Japan), in clear rivers and streams with gravel and stone bottoms.
How big does the Oily gudgeon get?
The Oily gudgeon grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Oily gudgeon dangerous to humans?
No, the Oily gudgeon is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Oily gudgeon edible?
The Oily gudgeon is rarely eaten.
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All data
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Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
Same genus Sarcocheilichthys
More from the family Cyprinidae
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