How to Identify Albeli

To identify Albeli (Coregonus zugensis), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

torpedo

Coloration

Silvery flanks, darker dorsal side (bluish-grey to greenish-brown), and a white belly. Fins are typically translucent or slightly dusky.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

subterminal

Distinctive features

Relatively small mouth, often subterminal., Adipose fin present (characteristic of Salmonidae)., Number of gill rakers is a key diagnostic feature, typically ranging from 28-35 in C. zugensis, which is intermediate compared to other sympatric Coregonus species in Lake Zug., Lateral line complete and prominent.

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin, relatively short, with 10-14 soft rays.

Tail fin

Deeply forked caudal fin, typical of fast-swimming pelagic fish.

Pectoral fin

Paired pectoral fins, moderately sized.

Distinctive fins

Presence of an adipose fin between the dorsal and caudal fins.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Gill Raker Count

   The most reliable method for distinguishing Coregonus zugensis from other sympatric whitefish species in Lake Zug (e.g., Coregonus nobilis, Coregonus restrictus, Coregonus macrophthalmus) is the number of gill rakers on the first branchial arch. C. zugensis typically has an intermediate count (28-35), whereas C. nobilis has fewer (20-27) and C. macrophthalmus has more (35-45).

2. 2

   Body Shape and Size

   Albeli are generally smaller and more slender than the larger 'Edelfelchen' (C. nobilis). Adults typically reach 20-30 cm in length, with a maximum of around 40 cm.

3. 3

   Mouth Position

   The mouth is typically subterminal, meaning it is slightly below the snout, adapted for feeding on zooplankton in the water column.

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