The Rosy bitterling (Rhodeus ocellatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 9 cm.
Description
The rosy bitterling is a small, deep-bodied cyprinid of the family Cyprinidae reaching about 9 cm. The laterally compressed, silvery body has a green-blue lengthwise stripe along the rear flank; in the breeding season the male turns a beautiful rosy purple. The species comes from East Asia and, like the European bitterling, depends on freshwater mussels for its reproduction: with a long ovipositor the female lays the eggs in the gill cavity of a living mussel, where they grow up safely. It lives in slow to still water with abundant water plants and eats algae, small zooplankton and insect larvae. As an ornamental and aquarium fish it has been released in parts of Europe and elsewhere, where it locally goes feral.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Rosy bitterling?
The Rosy bitterling has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern.
Where does the Rosy bitterling live?
The Rosy bitterling lives in fresh water and is mostly found around algae or seagrass beds.
How big does the Rosy bitterling get?
The Rosy bitterling grows to a maximum of about 9 cm. On average the species is around 5 cm.
Is the Rosy bitterling dangerous to humans?
No, the Rosy bitterling is harmless to humans.
Is the Rosy bitterling edible?
The Rosy bitterling is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Rhodeus
More from the family Cyprinidae
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