Ruffe
Gymnocephalus cernua
Summary 2
Family: Percidae
Ruffe(Gymnocephalus cernua) are originally from eastern Europe and western Asia, but were accidentally carried to the Great Lakes inside freighters. Most common in Lake Superior and the northern portions of Lake Michigan and Lake Huron. Will ascend a short ways up some rivers. Can be locally abundant in some river mouths. Appear to still be slowly spreading. There is concern that they will compete with native fishes like yellow perch.
How to recognize: Body is brown with diffuse dark blotches. Two fins on the back, the first supported by stiff spines, and the second supported by soft rays. These fins are broadly joined. Black spots on the tail and fins on the back. Up to 10 inches /25 centimeters long.
Sources and Credits
- (c) alavire, all rights reserved
- (c) alavire, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC)
