Fin's Fish Guide
The South European roach (Sarmarutilus rubilio) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 18 cm.
Fresh water of central Italy, in the basins of the Tiber and adjoining rivers, in slow- to moderately flowing rivers, lakes and streams.
Description
The South European roach, called rovella in Italy, is a slender cyprinid of the family Cyprinidae (Leuciscidae) reaching about 18 cm. It resembles the common roach, with a silvery-grey body and often a dark lengthwise stripe along the flank. The species is endemic to the fresh water of central Italy, mainly in the Tiber and adjacent drainages, where it lives in schools in slow to moderately flowing rivers, lakes and streams. As an omnivore it eats insect larvae, small crustaceans, worms, algae and plant material. In spring it spawns in shallow, vegetated water. Through water pollution, habitat loss and competition with introduced exotics it has declined and is assessed as Vulnerable (VU).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the South European roach?
The South European roach has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Slender, silver cyprinid that resembles the roach, with a dark longitudinal stripe along the flank; endemic to central Italy.
Where does the South European roach live?
The South European roach lives in fresh water and is mostly found around open water. Fresh water of central Italy, in the basins of the Tiber and adjoining rivers, in slow- to moderately flowing rivers, lakes and streams.
How big does the South European roach get?
The South European roach grows to a maximum of about 18 cm.
Is the South European roach dangerous to humans?
No, the South European roach is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the South European roach edible?
The South European roach is rarely eaten.
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More from the family Cyprinidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the South European roach is one of 12,519 species in the app.