How to Identify Zerla

To identify Zerla (Rutilus virgo), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Silvery flanks, darker grey-green to brownish back. Fins are typically reddish, especially the pectoral, pelvic, and anal fins, becoming more intense during spawning. The iris of the eye is often yellowish to reddish.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Relatively deep body for a Rutilus species., Reddish fins, particularly pronounced in adults and during breeding., Terminal mouth., Large, cycloid scales.

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin, relatively short, with 3-4 unbranched and 8-9 branched rays.

Tail fin

Deeply forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Paired pectoral fins, reddish.

Distinctive fins

All paired fins (pectoral and pelvic) and the anal fin are typically reddish, a key distinguishing feature from some other roach species.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Shape

   Look for a relatively deep, laterally compressed body compared to the more slender common roach (Rutilus rutilus).

2. 2

   Fin Coloration

   The most reliable field mark is the reddish coloration of the pectoral, pelvic, and anal fins, which is often more intense than in other roach species.

3. 3

   Eye Color

   The iris of the eye is typically yellowish to reddish, which can help differentiate it.

4. 4

   Lateral Line Scales

   Count the scales along the lateral line; Rutilus virgo typically has 40-44 scales, which can be a distinguishing feature from closely related species.

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