Powan
Species Information
Statistics
Scientific Name: Coregonus clupeoides
Length:Â up to 73cmÂ
Weight:Â up to 10kg
Average lifespan:Â up to 25 years
Conservation status
Schedule 3 of the Conservation (Natural Habitats, &c.) Regulations 1994 protects Powan by law. Powan is also on the IUCN red list of threatened speciesÂ
When to see
January to December
About
Powan is an anadromous species inhabiting waters of very low salinity. It is a demersal species preferring cooler, deeper waters. It is found in only two lochs in Scotland: Loch Lomond and Loch Eck. Fish from these populations have been transplanted to other lochs in order to establish populations as part of a conservation effort often known as ark sites.
How to identify
Also known as a gwyniad, shelly or common whitefish, Powan is a member of the salmon family. It has a silver coloured streamlined body and darker coloured fins. It may reach up to 73cm in length. Its tail fin is forked and it has a small mouth and a protruding upper jaw.
Did you know ?
Powan have been successfully introduced to two other sites, Loch Sloy and the Carron Valley Reservoir (within the Forth District).
How you can help?Â
Did you know you can help wildlife in your local river ? You can do this in many ways from reporting pollution to SEPA, by not flushing wet wipes down the toilet and even at one of our many conservation volunteer days. Check out our Get Involved page for more information on how you can get involved with your local river.