The Black Sea chub (Petroleuciscus borysthenicus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cyprinidae that grows up to 40 cm.
Description
The Black Sea chub is a slender cyprinid of the family Cyprinidae reaching about 40 cm. The silvery body has a fairly thick head, a terminal mouth and large scales, making the fish resemble a small chub. The species lives in slow-flowing and still fresh waters of the Black Sea basin, such as river deltas, lakes and pools in Ukraine and Russia among others. As an omnivore it eats insect larvae, small crustaceans, algae and plant matter. In spring it spawns in shallow, vegetation-rich water, where the sticky eggs are laid on water plants. The species is fairly common within its range and is locally caught by anglers, but outside eastern Europe it is little known.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Black Sea chub?
The Black Sea chub has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern.
Where does the Black Sea chub live?
The Black Sea chub lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom.
How big does the Black Sea chub get?
The Black Sea chub grows to a maximum of about 40 cm. On average the species is around 18 cm.
Is the Black Sea chub dangerous to humans?
No, the Black Sea chub is harmless to humans.
Is the Black Sea chub edible?
The Black Sea chub is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Petroleuciscus
More from the family Cyprinidae
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