Tench

The tench is a sturdy ray-finned fish that thrives in slow-moving waters across Europe and Asia. It prefers quiet lakes and lazy rivers, often lurking among weeds. Some call it the 'doctor fish' for its smooth, mucus-coated scales.

• Found from western Europe to Siberia's Ob and Yenisei rivers.
• Lives in both freshwater and slightly salty brackish environments.
• Its slippery skin feels like wet velvet when touched.