Vulnerability
Species of least concern
Information
Typically found in shallow, densely vegetated lakes and backwaters. Often overwinters buried in mud. Larvae and juveniles confined to dense vegetation. Adults inhabit warm lakes and pools with weed and mud bottom. Feeds on detritus, benthic (seafloor level) animals and plant materials. Adult often prey mainly on molluscs. Spawns among dense vegetation in still water. Utilized fresh and frozen; eaten pan-fried, broiled, and baked. Popular with amateur sport fishers. Its flesh is highly esteemed. Locally under threat due to river engineering.
Localization
Eurasia: native in most Europe, naturally absent only in Ireland, Scandinavia north of 61°30’N, eastern Adriatic basin and western and southern Greece where it is now introduced. In Asia, native eastward to western Yenisei drainage south of 60° N. Introduced elsewhere.
Environment
Freshwater/Brackish
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