Occurs in all large rivers and coastal rivers but its wide area of distribution over France has been reduced because of the dams built on the waterways. It is diminishing in number in the North and the East (basin of the Rhine). In France, it is highly valued for the gastronomique quality of its flesh (Ref. 30578). Known from Rhine (rare), Loire, Gironde (Ref. 51442), Rhône, Adour rivers, and small coastal rivers of Brittany. In "Annexe II de la "Directive Habitats-faune-flore". After the "Arrêté de Biotope, 8 Dec. 1998", the spawning area may be protected (Ref. 40476). Found along the coast of France and down into the Mediterranean Sea (Ref. 89241). Also Ref. 2163.

Status of threat: Vulnerable (Ref. 74334).

Status of threat: Vulnerable (Ref. 11941).