Fin's Fish Guide
The Prespa bleak (Alburnus belvica) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 14 cm.
Endemic to the Prespa Lakes on the border of North Macedonia, Albania and Greece, and to the inflowing streams; lives in open water and migrates to the banks and streams to spawn.
Description
The Prespa bleak is a slender, bright silvery schooling fish of the family Cyprinidae (Leuciscidae) reaching about 14 cm. The streamlined body has an upturned mouth with which the fish picks prey just below the surface. The species is endemic to the Prespa Lakes on the border of North Macedonia, Albania and Greece and the inflowing streams. It lives in schools in the open water and in spring moves to shallow shores and stream mouths to spawn on gravel. As an omnivore it feeds on zooplankton, surface insects and small invertebrates. The Prespa bleak has long been an important food fish for local people. Through overfishing, falling water levels and pollution it has declined and is assessed as Vulnerable (VU).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Prespa bleak?
The Prespa bleak has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Slender, bright silver small schooling fish with an upturned mouth; endemic to the Prespa Lakes in the Balkans.
Where does the Prespa bleak live?
The Prespa bleak lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Endemic to the Prespa Lakes on the border of North Macedonia, Albania and Greece, and to the inflowing streams; lives in open water and migrates to the banks and streams to spawn.
How big does the Prespa bleak get?
The Prespa bleak grows to a maximum of about 14 cm.
Is the Prespa bleak dangerous to humans?
No, the Prespa bleak is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Prespa bleak edible?
Yes, the Prespa bleak is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Alburnus
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Prespa bleak?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Prespa bleak is one of 12,519 species in the app.