Sander volgensis (Gmelin 1789)

Distinguished uniquely from congeners in Europe by the absence of canine teeth. Differs further by the combination of the following characters: second dorsal fin with 19-21½ branched rays; 70-83 scales on lateral line; and cheek scaled (Ref. 59043).

Individual females spawn 2-3 portions of eggs. May undertake short spawning migrations. Males are territorial. They excavate shallow depressions in sand or gravel, or exposed plant roots where eggs are deposited, usually along shallow shores at 1-2 m depth (Ref. 59043).

Inhabits rivers. Also found in brackish water near river estuaries. Smaller fish prey on crustaceans clinging to the river bed. Larger fish feed on shoals of fry and eat small perch, Perca fluviatilis, and ruffe, Gymnocephalus cernuus.

Inhabits large, turbid rivers and lakes, and brackish coastal lakes and estuaries. Most active at dusk and dawn. Feeds on small fish and invertebrates. Larvae and juveniles are pelagic and feed on zooplankton. Attains first sexual maturity at 3-4 years of age and 20-30 cm SL. Spawns in April-May. May undertake short spawning migrations (Ref. 59043).

fisheries: commercial; gamefish: yes