Description and characteristics
The nase (Chondrostoma nasus) is a medium-sized cyprinid with an elongated, fusiform body covered with small, silvery scales. It stands out for its pointed, extended snout and slit-like ventral mouth, adapted to scrape algae from stones.
Habitat and distribution
It prefers clear, flowing waters with stony bottoms and moderate currents — Danube branches and tributaries. It lives in schools near the bottom.
Diet and behaviour
It feeds on algae and periphyton, scraping them from stones and bottoms, as well as small invertebrates. A schooling species active during the day.
Reproduction
Spawning occurs in spring at 10–14°C, with females laying eggs on stony bottoms. The fry grow moderately.
Economic and ecological importance
The nase has local value for fishing and aquaculture. Ecologically, it contributes to cleaning bottoms and balancing flowing waters.
Threats and conservation
It is sensitive to pollution and alteration of stony bottoms. Protection of flowing habitats is important.
Fishing and legal minimum size
The nase is caught with a rod, with vegetable baits or worms. In the table of minimum legal sizes, the nase (Chondrostoma nasus) has a minimum legal size of 20 cm.
Conclusion
The nase is a bottom-dwelling cyprinid adapted to flowing waters, important for the ecosystems of the Danube Delta.