Fin's Fish Guide
The Chub (Squalius cephalus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 60 cm.
Widespread in fresh water of Europe, mainly in flowing rivers and streams.
Description
The chub is a sturdy freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae reaching about 60 cm. The elongate body has a broad, blunt head with a large mouth, large scales with dark edges and reddish pelvic and anal fins. The species lives mainly in flowing rivers and streams of Europe, but also in lakes, and prefers clear, oxygen-rich water. Juveniles live in schools, large individuals often solitarily under overhanging banks. The chub is an omnivore: when young it eats mainly insects and crustaceans, when older also plant matter, small fish and even land animals that fall into the water. It is a strong, wary fish and a valued challenge for anglers.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Chub?
The Chub has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Large freshwater fish with a broad, blunt skull, large scales with dark edges and reddish pelvic and anal fins.
Where does the Chub live?
The Chub lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Widespread in fresh water of Europe, mainly in flowing rivers and streams.
How big does the Chub get?
The Chub grows to a maximum of about 60 cm. On average the species is around 30 cm.
Is the Chub dangerous to humans?
No, the Chub is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Chub edible?
The Chub is rarely eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Chub 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 Squalius
More from the family Cyprinidae
Want the complete picture on the Chub?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Chub is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone