suitsulõhe

Suitsulõhe, also known as the European sucker, is a freshwater fish belonging to the family Catostomidae. It is native to the rivers and streams of Europe, particularly in the Baltic Sea drainage basin. The species is characterized by its elongated, cylindrical body, which can reach up to 30 centimeters in length. Suitsulõhe has a distinctive feature of having a sucker-like mouth, which it uses to attach itself to surfaces such as rocks and aquatic plants.

The diet of suitsulõhe primarily consists of small invertebrates, algae, and detritus. It is a benthic species, meaning it inhabits the bottom of rivers and streams. Suitsulõhe is known for its ability to tolerate a wide range of water conditions, including both clean and polluted waters. This adaptability has contributed to its widespread distribution across Europe.

Reproduction in suitsulõhe occurs during the spring months. The fish is a simultaneous hermaphrodite, meaning each individual can function as both a male and a female. This allows for self-fertilization, although cross-fertilization can also occur. The eggs are deposited on the substrate, and the larvae develop into juvenile fish before entering the adult stage.

Suitsulõhe plays a role in the ecosystem by contributing to the breakdown of organic matter and serving as a food source for other aquatic organisms. Despite its adaptability, the species faces threats from habitat degradation and pollution. Conservation efforts are underway to protect the remaining populations of suitsulõhe and ensure the preservation of this important component of freshwater ecosystems.