Fin's Fish Guide
The Zingel (Zingel zingel) is a freshwater fish of the family Percidae that grows up to 48 cm.
Fresh water of the Danube basin in Central and Eastern Europe, in fast-flowing rivers with gravel and stony bottoms.
Description
The zingel is an elongate, perch-like bottom fish of the family Percidae reaching about 48 cm. The spindle-shaped, brown-yellow body bears several dark, oblique cross-bars and has two clearly separate dorsal fins, the first of which is spiny. Like its relative the streber, the zingel is strongly adapted to fast-flowing water: it presses against the bottom with its broad pectoral fins to avoid being swept away. The species lives in the fresh water of the Danube drainage in central and eastern Europe, in fast-flowing rivers with gravel and stone bottoms. Mainly at night it hunts insect larvae, small bottom fish and crustaceans. In early spring it spawns on gravel. Because of its hidden lifestyle it is rarely seen.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Zingel?
The Zingel has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Elongate, perch-like bottom fish with a spindle-shaped body, two separate dorsal fins and dark, oblique vertical bars; adapted to fast-flowing water.
Where does the Zingel live?
The Zingel lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Fresh water of the Danube basin in Central and Eastern Europe, in fast-flowing rivers with gravel and stony bottoms.
How big does the Zingel get?
The Zingel grows to a maximum of about 48 cm. On average the species is around 15 cm.
Is the Zingel dangerous to humans?
No, the Zingel is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Zingel edible?
The Zingel is rarely eaten.
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Status & sources
Same genus Zingel
More from the family Percidae
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