Invasive Species Ireland > Species Accounts > Established > Freshwater > Chub

Chub

Squalius cephalus

Overview

Photo credit: ©Karel Jakubec
Squalius cephalus
Chub are generally present in rivers with a moderate flow and occasionally in lakes.
Description:
  • The chub is a slender-bodied member of the carp family that reaches an average length of 30-45 cm (1.0-1.5kg) although fish of up to 80cm (circa 7.5kg) are known from the continent. Its scales are relatively large, bordered with black or grey, and their colour varies from grey-brown tinged with green along the back; to the lighter colour of the flanks which often have a golden hue, blending into the white of the belly. The rounded fins are a rich red in colour and they have relatively few rays. The mouth is wide and lacks barbells.

Download N.I.E.A. ID guide

Origin and Distribution:
  • The chub is a native abundant and widespread fish in Europe ranging from the north-east of Spain to the Ural basin, and from the south of Sweden to Italy. In Britain, it can be found in rivers throughout England and Wales as well as still waters to which it has been introduced for angling purposes.
Impacts:
  • Potential associated introduction of fish diseases and parasites.
  • Competition with native fish, especially salmon parr and trout.
  • Hybridisation with other related species.
  • A reduction in the quality of Irish game (salmonid), and potentially coarse fisheries.
  • A reduction in the distinctiveness of the Irish freshwater fish fauna.
  • Unpredictable and potentially wide-ranging ecological impacts.
  • Economic impacts arising from the decline of Irish salmonid fisheries. 
How did it get here? 
  • Intentional introduction by anglers.
Is it Northern Ireland?
  • It has not been recorded in Northern Ireland although it has been recorded in Ireland, in River Inny in the Shannon River system, which means it poses a risk to NI waters.
  • More distribution information can be seen here at NBDC and NBN Atlas NI.
You can help by reporting any sightings: @ the Centre for Environmental Data & Recording (CEDaR) - Or via the iRecord App.
Prevent Spread
  • Do not introduce non native fish species
  • Do not move species of fish from one waterbody to another
  • Do not use live bait in river systems
  • Report all sightings
For further queries, you can contact the Invasive Non Native Species (INNS) Team in the Northern Ireland Environment Agency on 028 9056 9558 or Email: invasivespecies@daera-ni.gov.uk  

Species Related Files:

Download FileNIEA-ID-Guide-Squalius-cephalus-Chub
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Invasive Species Northern Ireland

Invasive Species Northern Ireland