Pearl Roach Rudd (Scardinius erythrophthalmus)

Overview

Pearl Roach Rudd, Scardinius erythrophthalmus, is a peaceful coldwater shoaling fish for mature ponds or very spacious unheated aquariums. It is valued for its bright, active movement and warm red-orange fin colour, especially when kept in clean water with plant cover and room to swim.

This listing is for fish supplied at around 10-15 cm. Rudd are active fish, so plan around their adult needs rather than the shipping size alone. They are best for keepers who can provide a stable coldwater setup, strong oxygenation, sensible stocking and calm companions of a similar size.

Care snapshot

Setup and water conditions

Pearl Roach Rudd should be kept in a mature, well-filtered coldwater aquarium or pond-style setup. Open swimming space matters, but so does cover: plants, shaded areas and gentle structure help the fish settle and behave naturally. Avoid cramped tanks, poor oxygenation and unstable water.

This is not a warm tropical community fish. Keep it in unheated conditions and match tank mates to the same cool, stable water range. Check your local water, cycle the system fully and make sure the aquarium or pond is ready before ordering.

Feeding

Rudd feed on a mixed diet in nature, including plant material, algae, plankton, insects and small aquatic foods. In captivity, offer quality coldwater or pond foods with vegetable content, plus occasional suitable frozen or live foods. Feed modest portions and remove excess food so water quality stays high.

Behaviour and tank mates

Pearl Roach Rudd is peaceful, but it is also active and should not be treated like a tiny nano fish. Keep it with calm coldwater companions of a similar size, such as suitable goldfish varieties or orfe, where space and filtration are appropriate. Avoid aggressive fish, fin nippers, predators and very small fish that may be outcompeted at feeding time.

Delivery and acclimation

Order only when your coldwater setup is mature and ready. On arrival, acclimate slowly, keep the lights low for the first few hours and avoid heavy feeding on day one. Watch breathing, posture, colour and appetite during the first week, and contact us promptly if you have delivery concerns.

Why buy from Tropical Fish Co?

We pack livestock carefully for UK courier delivery, with insulation and heat control where needed. Your order is supported by tracked delivery, clear acclimation guidance and our live arrival guarantee, so you can buy with confidence when your aquarium or pond is ready.