Common nase facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Common nase |
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The common nase (Chondrostoma nasus) is a type of fish found in Europe. It's a member of the carp family and lives in rivers. People often just call it the nase. Sometimes it's also called the sneep. This fish is special because it travels within rivers to different places.
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Where Does the Nase Live?
The common nase naturally lives in many rivers that flow into the Black Sea. These include the Danube, Dniestr, Southern Bug, and Dniepr rivers.
It also lives in rivers that flow into the southern Baltic Sea. Some of these are the Nieman, Odra, and Vistula rivers. You can also find it in rivers connected to the southern North Sea, as far west as the Meuse River.
People have also brought the nase to other rivers. These include the Rhône, Loire, and Hérault rivers in France. It has also been introduced to the Soca/Isonzo rivers in Italy and Slovenia. The nase is a migratory fish, meaning it moves around.
What Does the Nase Look Like?
The nase has a body shape like a spindle, which means it's long and slender. Its scales are a shiny blue-grey color, like metal. The tail of the nase is often orange.
It has a lower lip that is quite sharp. Most nase fish are about 25 to 40 centimeters (10 to 16 inches) long. They usually weigh around 1000 grams (about 2.2 pounds). However, some very large nase have been found. These can be up to 60 centimeters (24 inches) long and weigh 3 kilograms (6.6 pounds). The common nase can live for up to 15 years.
How Does the Nase Live?
The common nase is a very social fish. It likes to live in large groups called shoals. You can often find these groups in deep water where the current is fast. They like to gather near the backwaters of bridges or around rocky areas.
Nase fish usually stay close to the bottom of the river. They eat algae, which are tiny plant-like organisms. They also feed on other aquatic plants and small invertebrates.
Who First Described the Nase?
The common nase was first officially described by a famous scientist. His name was Carl Linnaeus. He described this fish in the year 1758.
Is the Nase Protected?
Yes, the common nase is a protected species. It is protected by an important agreement called the Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats. This helps make sure the nase fish population stays healthy.
