How to Identify Common Rudd

To identify Common Rudd (Scardinius erythrophthalmus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Dorsal side is typically dark green to olive-brown, fading to golden-bronze or brassy on the flanks, and silvery-white on the belly. The most striking feature is the bright red or orange coloration of the pectoral, pelvic, and anal fins, and often the lower lobe of the caudal fin. The iris of the eye is typically reddish-orange.

Scale type

cycloid

Mouth position

superior

Distinctive features

Bright red/orange fins, Upward-pointing mouth (superior), Deep, laterally compressed body, Golden-bronze flanks, Reddish iris

Dorsal fin

Short, located relatively far back on the body, behind the origin of the pelvic fins. Typically 8-9 branched rays.

Tail fin

Forked, with a distinct reddish hue, especially on the lower lobe.

Pectoral fin

Bright red/orange, relatively short.

Distinctive fins

All paired fins (pectoral, pelvic) and the anal fin are typically bright red or orange, a key distinguishing feature.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Mouth Position

   The mouth is distinctly upturned (superior), indicating its surface-feeding habits. This is a key differentiator from Roach.

2. 2

   Fin Coloration

   All paired fins (pectoral, pelvic) and the anal fin are typically bright red or orange. The dorsal fin is usually greyish-red, and the caudal fin is reddish, especially the lower lobe.

3. 3

   Dorsal Fin Origin

   The origin of the dorsal fin is located behind the origin of the pelvic fins. In contrast, the Roach's dorsal fin origin is typically directly above or slightly in front of the pelvic fin origin.

4. 4

   Body Shape

   Has a deeper, more compressed body compared to the Roach, which is generally more slender.

5. 5

   Lateral Line Scales

   Typically has 39-42 scales along the lateral line.

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