Author: (Zupančič & Bogutskaya, 2002)
Comments: Inhabits streams with slow current and clear water.  Enters subterranean waters and springs in karstic areas. May live during winter in subterranean waters or hidden in mud depending on water level.  After spawning, move into subterranean stretches of streams. May return to surface stream when water level increases again in autumn.  Threatened by increasing water abstraction and introduction of <i>Squalius cephalus</i> and <i>Lepomis gibbosus</i> (Ref. 59043).