This large fish, reaching over 2 metres and weighing in at over 100 kg, has made Lake Geneva its permanent home (record catch in Lake Geneva 2.67 m for 127 kg in 2016).
Originally from Eastern Europe, it was introduced to France in 1960. It arrived in Lake Geneva via the Rhône and probably through illegal releases by amateur fishermen.
This omnivorous, opportunistic predator feeds on anything that can fit in its mouth, including small fish, amphibians and crayfish, as well as birds such as moorhens. This fish is a walking hoover that can wreak havoc on spawning grounds. It even cannibalises its fellow fish, helping to regulate itself. But don't worry, these fish have no teeth.
Once they reach a certain size, these fish no longer have any predators, which could create an imbalance in the Lake Geneva ecosystem.
For further information: The monster of Lake Geneva
