The fins are rounded and the tail is almost unforked. It is possible to distinguish the sexes based on the shape of the pelvic fins on the underside of the body. Male fish have very large spoon-shaped fins, while those of the female are longer, more pointed and triangular in shape. Spawning therefore is normally restricted to late June and July. Egg size is 1.3 - 1.4 mm.
Food consists of insect larvae and molluscs.
Cross fertilisation between different species of fish gives rise to hybrids. All these hybrid forms can develop into fertile adults producing viable eggs. The bream hybrids are a well sought after angling species and are renowned for their good fighting ability when hooked. Rudd are characterised by their golden green hue, scarlet fins and protruding lower jaw. Egg size is between 1.4 - 1.7 mm.