Fin's Fish Guide
The Spirlin (Alburnoides bipunctatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 19 cm.
Fresh water of Central and Eastern Europe, in clear, fast-flowing water of rivers and streams with a gravel bottom.
Description
The spirlin is a small, slender, current-loving fish of the family Cyprinidae reaching about 18 cm. The compressed, silvery body is notable for a double row of fine dark spots along the lateral line; in the breeding season the fin bases turn yellow-orange. The species lives in schools in clear, fast-flowing, oxygen-rich water of rivers and streams with a gravel bed in central and eastern Europe, and is regarded as an indicator of clean, flowing water. As an omnivore it eats insects and their larvae, small crustaceans and algae, often snapping in the current. It spawns in spring and summer over gravel. Through loss and pollution of fast-flowing waters the species has declined locally.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Spirlin?
The Spirlin has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Small, slender current-loving fish with a double row of dark spots along the lateral line and yellow-orange fin bases in the spawning season.
Where does the Spirlin live?
The Spirlin lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Fresh water of Central and Eastern Europe, in clear, fast-flowing water of rivers and streams with a gravel bottom.
How big does the Spirlin get?
The Spirlin grows to a maximum of about 19 cm. On average the species is around 9 cm.
Is the Spirlin dangerous to humans?
No, the Spirlin is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Spirlin edible?
The Spirlin is not usually eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Spirlin 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 Alburnoides
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Spirlin?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Spirlin is one of 12,519 species in the app.