The salmonid family is one of the most impressive groups of freshwater fish, comprising more than 60 species, including the genus Sycamore. Sycamores are special because of their ecological and commercial value. Their Latin name Coregonus means "corner" or "specimen". This association stems from their distinctive angled pupils, which became the basis of the Sycamore's name. Sykas not only represent their own family, but are also considered extremely important elements of the aquatic ecosystem, as they contribute to the maintenance of natural food chains.

Syk is considered one of the oldest species of fish. They appeared yet Silurian period at the end, more than 400 million years ago, and since then has successfully adapted to many environmental changes. The fact that the Sikhs survived for so many years shows their ability to adapt to different living conditions. The first description of sycamores was given as early as 1758. a famous naturalist Carl Linnaeus, which impressed the scientific world by revealing the ecological importance and uniqueness of these fish.

What size can the syca reach

Stingrays are one of those fish whose size depends a lot on their habitat and subspecies. Smaller sycamores grow to a length of only 20 cm, and the largest, depending on the environmental conditions, can reach a length of even 1 meter. Lake sycamores usually grow up to 70-80 cm, but this is not the limit. Larger individuals, especially those that live in deep, food-rich bodies of water, can weigh up to 12 kg.

Interestingly, the size of the syko is also determined not only by the abundance of food, but also by environmental conditions such as water temperature and oxygen content. Oxygen is especially important, as sikas cannot survive for long in bodies of water that lack it. Also, their size is influenced by their diet - the richer the food base, the faster it grows fish.

How the sycamore spawns

Syko spawning is one of the most interesting stages of the life cycle of this fish. Although sycamores are long-lived, they reach sexual maturity only after a few years. Males mature at about 4 years of life, and females only at about 6 years. This late maturation allows the sycamores to grow large and strong enough to successfully spawn. Spawning usually takes place in autumn, when the water temperature drops to 5 °C. This process can last from September to December.

Females can help up to 30 thousand during one spawning. of eggs, which are usually laid in vegetation-covered estuaries. This allows the eggs to better hide from predators. After spawning, the fish return to their usual habitats, and the eggs hatch into larvae after a few months. This early life stage is extremely sensitive, as most eggs and larvae fall prey to predators and die.

Where do Sykes live?

Sykes are specially adapted to clean and oxygenated waters, and their habitats are characterized by cold and clear water. This means that sikas cannot survive in polluted or warmer bodies of water, as the lack of oxygen becomes a decisive factor in their survival. It is because of these characteristics that sikas are usually found in deep lakes, clean rivers and water bodies in mountain regions.

Interestingly, sikas usually stay in the middle layers of water or in bottom holes, where they feel safe. Such places give them good hiding place from predators and ensure that they can easily find food. Bottom pits are a favorite habitat of sike, but they often become the object of competition between fish. If a fish likes a certain place, it actively defends it from other fish, even if they are of the same species. However, young sycamores tend to stay closer to the water surface and shores, as they are less established in their territory.

Sykai is a rare and protected species in Lithuania, which is listed in the Lithuanian Red Book. They are found only in a few deep and clean lakes.

• Lake Plateliai - this is the main natural location of the Syca population in Lithuania. In this lake, sikas are relics of the Ice Age, living in the deepest layers of water, where the water is cold and saturated with oxygen.
• Verniejas and Spindžiai lakes – these lakes were replenished with the syca population by transferring fish from Lake Plateliai in order to preserve and expand their range.
• Vištytis lake – this border lake is also one of the places where whitefish are bred and protected. Recently, Lake Vištytis has been included in whitefish breeding programs to increase their population.
• Lūšii and Asalni lakes - these lakes are historical habitats of sycamores, but their population here is very small or introduced to develop the conservation of the species.

In Lithuania, skunks are not as common as in some other northern countries, because they are very sensitive to water quality. Protection of whitefish is important because these fish are not only part of the ecosystem, but also a valuable part of nature.

Syks in cooking

Syko meat is considered a real delicacy due to its mild taste, nutritional value and versatility in the kitchen. Unlike most salmonids, the white salmon has a white flesh, which is why this fish is often called "white salmon". There are almost no small bones in the meat of syko, which makes it especially attractive to gourmets and those who like simply prepared but extremely tasty fish.

Syko meat is low in calories, but very nutritious. It is rich in protein, Omega-3 fats, as well as important vitamins and minerals such as iodine, fluorine, zinc, vitamins A, B and PP. These substances are extremely important for strengthening the immune system, preventing cardiovascular diseases and maintaining hormonal balance. For this reason, syko meat is often recommended for people who want to improve their health and follow a balanced diet.

Sykas are extremely versatile - they can be fried, smoked, stewed, boiled, salted or cured. Sycamore meat goes well with various spices and sauces. In addition, sika pink roe is considered a special delicacy, which is not inferior in value to traditional salmon roe. They are often used in gourmet dishes, such as served on bread with butter or added to sushi.

The gastronomic value of shad also affects their population, with high demand leading to intensive fishing, which threatens the survival of this fish in some areas. As a result, many countries are implementing strict regulations on whelk fishing to preserve this valuable fish for future generations.