Leuciscus vorax (Heckel, 1843)

Leuciscus vorax View in CoL View Figure

Common name. Mesopotamian asp.

Diagnosis. Distinguished from L. aspius by: ● 79–107 lateral line scales / ● lower lip strongly projecting upper lip. Size up to 1300 mm SL and 60 kg.

Distribution View Figure . Euphrates and Tigris drainages, including lower Karun and Jarahi ( Iran).

Habitat. Large rivers, lakes, and reservoirs. Spawns in current on submerged vegetation and gravel.

Biology. Lives up to 8 years, likely much longer. Matures at 3–4 years and spawns January–early March at water temperatures of 10–14°C. Juveniles prey on small fish, aquatic insects, and molluscs, while adults prey mainly on fish and frogs.

Conservation status. LC.

Remarks. Records from the Orontes drainage are doubtful and may refer to Squalius kottelati .

Further reading. Coad 2010a (distribution, biology); Coad 2021a (biology, morphology).