Fin's Fish Guide
The Rudd (Scardinius erythrophthalmus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 51 cm.
Widespread in fresh and slightly brackish water of Europe and West Asia, in plant-rich lakes, ponds and slow-flowing rivers.
Description
The rudd is a deep-bodied, golden-sheened freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae reaching about 50 cm but usually smaller. It resembles the roach but has a more upturned mouth, bright orange-red fins and a dorsal fin that starts clearly behind the base of the pelvic fins. The species lives in vegetation-rich lakes, ponds, ditches and slow rivers of Europe and western Asia, often just below the surface among water plants. As an omnivore it feeds on water plants, algae, insects and zooplankton. In late spring it spawns in shallow, vegetation-rich water. The rudd is a much-caught fish for angling and a common sight in inland waters.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Rudd?
The Rudd has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Deep-bodied, golden-sheened cyprinid with bright orange-red fins, an upward-facing mouth and a dorsal fin that begins behind the insertion of the pelvic fins.
Where does the Rudd live?
The Rudd lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Widespread in fresh and slightly brackish water of Europe and West Asia, in plant-rich lakes, ponds and slow-flowing rivers.
How big does the Rudd get?
The Rudd grows to a maximum of about 51 cm. On average the species is around 20 cm.
Is the Rudd dangerous to humans?
No, the Rudd is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Rudd edible?
The Rudd is rarely eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Rudd 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 Scardinius
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Rudd?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Rudd is one of 12,519 species in the app.