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Rutilus

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Rutilus is a genus of freshwater fish, family Leuciscidae, a family split from the traditional Cyprinidae, commonly called roaches, comprising 10 valid species, a widely distributed lineage ranging from Western Europe to East Siberia. The genus name derives from the Latin rutilus, meaning red, golden red or reddish yellow, an allusion to the characteristic red coloration of the fins. Members are distinguished by a posterior vent positioned closer to the tail, abdominal fins with nine rays, a large mouth with lips, and large scales; the smallest species, Rutilus sojuchbulagi, reaches just 7 centimeters, while the largest, Rutilus frisii and Rutilus meidingeri, grow up to 70 centimeters. The common roach, Rutilus rutilus, is the type species and most recognizable member of the genus.

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