The chub can reach a body length of 30 cm to 60 cm. The upper body surface is dark blue to greenish in color, while the lower body surface is yellowish. The pectoral fins are yellow, and the remaining fins are reddish in color. The scales are dark-edged (Schaefer 2018). It occurs in flowing waters as well as in brackish water, ponds, and lakes. The spawning period lasts from April to June. The eggs are deposited on the bottom, on stones, or on plants. Young animals often form schools, while adults are solitary (Grzimek 1980).

Diet: Young chubs feed on insects and their larvae, crustaceans, and also plant matter. Adult animals primarily feed on prey (Grzimek 1980).

Threat status: Squalius cephalus is listed as “least concern” in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as well as in the Red List of Germany.