Fin's Fish Guide
The Sichel (Pelecus cultratus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 60 cm.
Basins of the Baltic Sea, the Black Sea, the Sea of Azov and the Caspian Sea, in fresh and brackish water of large rivers, lakes and coastal lagoons.
Description
The sichel or sabre carp is a striking cyprinid of the family Cyprinidae reaching about 60 cm. The strongly compressed, silvery body has an almost straight back and a sharp, sabre-shaped belly keel, from which the species takes its German and Dutch names; the mouth points upward. With that upturned mouth it picks prey just below the surface. The sichel is a true open-water swimmer and lives in schools in fresh and brackish water of the Baltic, Black and Caspian Sea basins, in large rivers, lakes and coastal lagoons. It eats zooplankton, surface insects and small fish. In spring it moves to the spawning grounds, where the eggs drift freely in the flowing water.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Sichel?
The Sichel has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Strongly laterally compressed cyprinid with a sabre-shaped, sharp ventral keel, an almost straight back and an upturned mouth; a true open-water swimmer.
Where does the Sichel live?
The Sichel lives in brackish water and is mostly found around open water. Basins of the Baltic Sea, the Black Sea, the Sea of Azov and the Caspian Sea, in fresh and brackish water of large rivers, lakes and coastal lagoons.
How big does the Sichel get?
The Sichel grows to a maximum of about 60 cm. On average the species is around 25 cm.
Is the Sichel dangerous to humans?
No, the Sichel is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Sichel edible?
Yes, the Sichel is commonly eaten.
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More from the family Cyprinidae
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