Author: (Gmelin, 1789)
FBname: Donets ruffe
Comments: Found in flowing waters and lakes with clear water.  Also inhabits rapids during summer.  Occurs over sand and gravel bottom but prefers hard compact sand.  Usually crepuscular but feeds also during daytime. Preys predominantly on benthic invertebrates (crustaceans, insect larvae, molluscs), rarely on fish.  Forms small schools. In September, starts forming large schools and moves to deeper places and remains inactive until ice melts.  Does not undertake long distance migrations.  Spawns in small schools river stretches with heavy current and sand or gravel bottom (Ref.59043).