COMMON BREAM
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Actinopterygii
Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Cyprinidae
Genus: Abramis
Species: Abramis brama
The common bream is widely distributed across Europe and western Asia. It inhabits the basins of the Baltic, Black, Azov, Caspian, and Aral Seas. In Ukraine, it is found in all major rivers, lakes, and reservoirs. The species prefers slow-flowing or still waters with muddy or silty bottoms.
Lifespan in the wild, the bream lives about 15–20 years, while in captivity it can reach up to 25 years. Adult individuals usually weigh between 2–4 kg, with larger specimens reaching up to 6 kg. The body length typically ranges from 30 to 50 cm, occasionally reaching up to 70 cm.
The common bream is a schooling fish, often forming large groups. Spawning takes place from May to June, when water temperatures rise to +15–18 °C. Females lay between 100,000 and 300,000 eggs, which adhere to aquatic vegetation. The young grow quickly, reaching sexual maturity at 3–5 years of age. An omnivorous species, feeding on benthic invertebrates, insect larvae, detritus, algae, and aquatic plants.
The common bream belongs to the ancient Cyprinidae family, which appeared over 30 million years ago in freshwater environments across Eurasia.
The bream is an important commercial fish in Europe and Ukraine, valued for its taste and nutritional value. In folk culture, it symbolises prosperity and tranquillity.
According to the IUCN Red List, the species is classified as “Least Concern”. Its populations are generally stable, although local declines may occur due to water pollution and overfishing.
5 Interesting Facts
- The bream can survive in low-oxygen waters due to its slow metabolism.
- Its body colour changes with age — young fish are silvery, while adults become bronze-golden.
- The bream has a unique downward mouth adapted for feeding on the bottom.
- During spawning, bream become very active and produce characteristic splashing sounds.
- The species is one of the most popular targets for anglers throughout Eastern Europe.
