Freshwater fish

'Freshwater fish' are present in all types of water bodies, ranging from small dystrophic pools in our upland areas and moors, to large rivers and lochs. In order to survive in these disparate habitats, members of the Scottish freshwater fish community have evolved a remarkable range of life-history strategies. For example, some of these fish elect to spend their entire life in freshwater, whilst others migrate between freshwater habitats and the sea. Some of these species have evolved in ways which Darwin himself would be astounded.

About freshwater fish

An overview of freshwater fish in Scotland and why they're important.

Salmon

Atlantic salmon support a fishery of world renown, but they are also incredibly diverse.

Trout

Trout are a species well known by everyone, but their ecology is more complex that you might imagine.

Vendace / powan

Vendace and powan are two of Scotland's rarest species. Learn more about them here.

Sparling

This little known species once supported a number of fisheries in Scotland. Find out where they live.

Sticklebacks

Learn about sticklebacks without spines and others which have more than you might expect.

Lamprey

Lamprey are both ancient and spectacular. These fish use suckers and rasping teeth to feed on other fish.

Arctic Charr

Possibly the first freshwater fish to colonise Scotland after the last ice-age. Find out about its 'hidden biodiversity'.

European Eel

A trip from the Sargasso Sea to Scotland and back again - find out more about this incredible journey.

Shad

Learn about the Twaite and Allis shads. Find out where they live and how they use freshwater environments.

Other freshwater fish

Other species can be of interest - even if they aren't conservation priorities