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European Rud

European Rud

Fact Sheet

Scientific Name

(Scardinius erythrophthalmus)

Classification and Permitting Level

1 - Prohibited Aquatic Nuisance Species

Species Description

European rudd is a minnow that can reach about 19 inches in length and 5 pounds. It is distinguished from native golden shiners by having bright red fins, red eyes or eyes with a red spot, and scales on the ventral keel.

Preferred Habitat

It can typically be found near the bottom of lakes, ponds, rivers, and streams near vegetation.

Reason for ANS Designation

This fish may compete with native fish for food and readily hybridizes with the native golden shiner. Once established, there is no good control method.

Place of Origin

Round goby is native to Eurasia but was first documented in the United States in the late 1800s or early 1900s. The initial introduction was likely as a food or game species. More recent introductions have likely occurred from bait releases.

Stopping the Spread

Never release unused bait back into a waterbody, and do not attempt to stock a new species into a waterbody. Besides usually being illegal, new introductions of fish species may disrupt the current ecosystem.

Additional Information

USGS Fact Sheet