Fin's Fish Guide
The Roach (Rutilus rutilus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 50 cm.
Description
The roach is a common freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae reaching about 50 cm but usually smaller. The slender, laterally compressed body has silvery flanks, a blue-green back, red-orange eyes and reddish pelvic and anal fins. The species is very common in lakes, canals, ditches and rivers of Europe and northern Asia, including slightly brackish water, and forms large schools. It is an omnivore feeding on aquatic insects, small snails, plant matter and detritus. In spring it spawns en masse in shallow, vegetation-rich water. The roach is one of the most numerous fishes in inland waters and a popular fish for angling.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Roach?
The Roach has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Common freshwater fish with silvery flanks, red-orange eyes and reddish pelvic and anal fins; forms large shoals.
Where does the Roach live?
The Roach lives in brackish water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Widespread in fresh and brackish water of Europe and North Asia.
How big does the Roach get?
The Roach grows to a maximum of about 50 cm. On average the species is around 25 cm.
Is the Roach dangerous to humans?
No, the Roach is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Roach edible?
The Roach is rarely eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Roach 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 Rutilus
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Roach?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Roach is one of 12,519 species in the app.