Gold Rudd – Scardinius erythropthalmus

Gold Rudd – Scardinius erythropthalmus

Description: Rudd are found in 2 varieties in the UK. Gold and Silver/Redfin Rudd (the latter more commonly just know as Rudd) and are wide spread in the wild. They are keen surface feeders and can breed well in a garden pond with lots of vegetation. They can obtain reasonable sizes and take on a deep Gold colour on their flanks as they mature. They are found throughout Europe and have been introduced to New Zealand (illegally!).

Maximum Size: Upto 14″ but on average 8-10″ when mature.

Environment: Gold Rudd require well filtered pond with the benefits of vegetation. It is a shoal fish so benefits from 3 or more of the same species to fulfill it’s shoaling desire. They are likely breed in garden ponds, usually those that have prolific weed growth and are well oxygenated. Breeding can result in large numbers of stunted fish with 2-3 years. They are peaceful fish and will mix with all other types of fish. They are a nice addition to a large koi pond where a shoal of these can enhance a population of large Koi.

Water Conditions: Gold Rudd require a pH range of 7-8.5, Ammonia and Nitrite to be virtually 0ppm and dissolved oxygen saturation to remain above 8ppm. They are tolerable to lower oxygen saturation values than a lot of fish, although this is not recommended. Rudd can be sensitive to certain pond treatments so please seek professional advice before treating your pond.

As with any pet, please fully research for yourself to ensure that you can accommodate a fish of this type in your home.