Zander

Where it lives

Native to large rivers and lakes across central and eastern Europe, zander tolerate brackish coastal waters in the Baltic. Stocking has spread them west into Britain, France, and Spain. They favor deeper water with turbidity and structure: drop-offs, sunken trees, and river bends.

How to recognise it

A long, slim body with greenish-gray flanks marked by faint dark vertical bars. The eye is large and glassy like a walleye’s. Two distinct dorsal fins — a tall spiny first and a softer second — sit atop the body. The lower jaw bristles with prominent canine teeth.

Diet & behavior

Zander are nocturnal pack predators that hunt schools of cyprinids — particularly roach, bream, and perch — in low light. Their light-sensitive tapetum lucidum gives them an edge in stained or dim water. Spawning is in spring on submerged roots and stones, where males guard the eggs.

Fisheries & Conservation

Globally Least Concern. Highly valued for its mild, firm white flesh; commercial pond aquaculture is established in parts of Eastern Europe.