Zone 1

The first stop on your underwater voyage is the Fresh Water Stream. Here you will find Perch, Minnow, Grayling and Rudd.

Here’s a bit more detail about some of the fish found in this zone, including their Latin name, size they’ll grow, where they are found and what they feed on:

Grayling are found in a family of fish related to the salmon family. Grayling are colourful fish, with a beautiful dorsal (back) fin and violet-coloured lines running along the sides of their bodies. They smell slightly of the herb thyme so they have natural perfume! They are very sensitive to pollution and are therefore considered to be the best indicator of clean water of all European freshwater fish.
Max size – Approx 25-30cm
Distribution – Clean rivers in northern & eastern Europe
Feeds on – Small invertebrates such as insects and worms

Often confused with roach, rudd is a more colourful fish that usually has bright red fins or at least some red on its fins. It also has an upturned mouth which roach does not! However, rudd and roach interbreed which leads to hybrids that can make identification difficult! Rudd is very adaptable and can survive in very acidic waters. It is considered a pest in some areas, especially New Zealand, due to its consumption of vulnerable native plants.
Max size – Approx 35 cm
Distribution – Native to Europe & middle Asia, introduced to Canada, Morocco, New Zealand & the USA
Feeds on – Invertebrates especially insect larvae and plants