Bleak (Alburnus alburnus)
Alburnus alburnus
Origin: Europe (widespread — rivers and lakes across the continent)
Water Parameters
Quick Stats
- Max Size
- 20 cm
- Min Tank
- 500 L
- Lifespan
- 5-8
- Swimming Level
- top
- Schooling
- Yes (10–30+)
- Diet
- omnivore
- Temperament
- Peaceful; excellent schooling pond fish
About
The Bleak is a slender, fast-moving native European cyprinid recognized by its intensely silvery, laterally compressed body and deeply forked tail. Dense schools of Bleak create a stunning shimmering display near the pond surface. Cold hardy and undemanding, it is an excellent choice for wildlife ponds alongside native plants and other European species. Historically harvested for its iridescent scales used in artificial pearl production.
Care Guide
Suitable for outdoor ponds with clean, well-oxygenated water. Keep in large schools of 10 or more. Feed pond flakes and live invertebrates; also feeds on surface insects and algae. Very cold hardy — tolerates water down to 4°C. Requires no heating. Provide open water area for active swimming.
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