The European mudminnow (Umbra krameri) is a freshwater fish of the family Umbridae that grows up to 17 cm.
Description
The European mudminnow is a small, stocky marsh fish of the family Umbridae reaching about 17 cm. The brown-mottled body has a rounded tail and often a paler lengthwise stripe. A special adaptation is that the species can gulp air with its swim bladder and take up oxygen, allowing it to survive even in warm, muddy and oxygen-poor water where few other fish persist. It lives in slow-flowing, densely vegetated marshes, pools, ditches and side-channels of the Danube and Dniester drainages in central and south-eastern Europe. Among the plants it hunts insect larvae, small crustaceans, worms and molluscs. In spring the female guards a nest pit with the eggs and young. Through drainage of marshes it has declined sharply and is assessed as Vulnerable (VU).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the European mudminnow?
The European mudminnow has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern.
Where does the European mudminnow live?
The European mudminnow lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the European mudminnow get?
The European mudminnow grows to a maximum of about 17 cm. On average the species is around 5 cm.
Is the European mudminnow dangerous to humans?
No, the European mudminnow is harmless to humans.
Is the European mudminnow edible?
The European mudminnow is not usually eaten.
Download Fin's Fish Guide
Identify fish in seconds, log your catches and dives. Join the TestFlight beta.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Umbra
More from the family Umbridae
Download Fin's Fish Guide
Identify fish in seconds, log your catches and dives. Join the TestFlight beta.