The Chinese bitterling (Rhodeus sinensis) is a brackish-water fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 11 cm.
Description
The Chinese bitterling is a small cyprinid from East Asia, including China and Korea. The species grows to about 11 cm and has a deep, laterally compressed, silvery body; courting males develop handsome pink and blue tints. It inhabits quiet, vegetated parts of rivers, ponds and ditches. Notable is its reproduction: the female uses a long ovipositor to lay her eggs in the gill chamber of a living freshwater mussel, where the larvae grow up protected - a remarkable symbiosis. As an omnivore it feeds on algae, small zooplankton and detritus. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Chinese bitterling?
The Chinese bitterling has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern.
Where does the Chinese bitterling live?
The Chinese bitterling lives in brackish water and is mostly found around mixed bottom.
How big does the Chinese bitterling get?
The Chinese bitterling grows to a maximum of about 11 cm. On average the species is around 4 cm.
Is the Chinese bitterling dangerous to humans?
No, the Chinese bitterling is harmless to humans.
Is the Chinese bitterling edible?
The Chinese bitterling is rarely eaten.
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Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Rhodeus
More from the family Cyprinidae
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