Description and characteristics
The streber (Aspro streber) is a small fish with an elongated, slender body, yellowish-grey with short dark bars on the flanks, which camouflage it on the bottom. It has relatively large eyes.
Habitat and distribution
It prefers clear flowing waters with stony or sandy bottoms, present in the Danube branches and canals of the Danube Delta. It is a bottom-dwelling species.
Diet and behaviour
It feeds on small benthic invertebrates, insect larvae and crustaceans. It is active especially at night or in turbid water, hunting on the bottom.
Reproduction
Spawning occurs in spring, with females laying eggs on hard bottoms. The fry grow slowly and mature late.
Economic and ecological importance
The streber has more ecological than economic importance, being a prey species for predators and an indicator of the quality of flowing waters.
Threats and conservation
It is sensitive to pollution and alteration of bottoms and water courses. Protection of bottom habitats is essential.
Fishing and legal minimum size
The streber is caught accidentally with various bottom gear. In the table of minimum legal sizes, the streber (Aspro streber) has a minimum legal size of 12 cm.
Conclusion
The streber is a small, discreet bottom fish, important for the biodiversity of the flowing waters of the Danube Delta.