The silvery dace can be seen gathering in large shoals in lowland rivers and streams. It is a member of the carp family and looks very similar to the chub, but is smaller.
Scientific name
Leuciscus leuciscus
When to see
January to December
Top facts
Stats
Length: 15-25cm
Weight: up to 1.3kg
Average Lifespan: 8-16 years
A small to medium-sized, lively fish, the dace is a member of the carp family. Found in rivers and streams, it often gathers in large shoals in shady areas. It is omnivorous, feeding on invertebrates, fish eggs, plants and seeds. Spawning takes place in April when the females move upstream to join the males in shallow water; they produce up to 9,500 eggs.
What to look for
The dace is a slender fish, with a silvery body and brownish fins. It is more slender than the roach and smaller than the chub, with duller fins.
Where to find
Widespread in lowland England, but rarer in Wales and Scotland.
Did you know?
While typically a freshwater fish, the dace also enters brackish water.
