Fin's Fish Guide
The Zope (Ballerus ballerus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 49 cm.
Fresh and slightly brackish water of Central and Eastern Europe, in slow-flowing rivers, lakes and river mouths.
Description
The zope or blue bream is a slender bream relative of the family Cyprinidae reaching about 49 cm. The strongly compressed body is silvery with a blue-grey back, an upturned mouth and a notably long anal fin; this makes it resemble a slender bream, but it stays more elongate. The species lives in schools in slow-flowing rivers, lakes and river mouths of central and eastern Europe, including slightly brackish water. As an omnivore it feeds mainly on zooplankton, insect larvae and small invertebrates, partly caught in open water. In spring it spawns in shallow, vegetation-rich water. The zope is a common fish for coarse angling within its range.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Zope?
The Zope has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Slender, laterally flattened bream-like fish with an upturned mouth and a conspicuously long anal fin; resembles a slender bream.
Where does the Zope live?
The Zope lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Fresh and slightly brackish water of Central and Eastern Europe, in slow-flowing rivers, lakes and river mouths.
How big does the Zope get?
The Zope grows to a maximum of about 49 cm. On average the species is around 20 cm.
Is the Zope dangerous to humans?
No, the Zope is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Zope edible?
The Zope is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Ballerus
More from the family Cyprinidae
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