Found in Tyrrhenian slope from Magra to Bussento drainages, Adriatic slope from Chienti to Trigno drainages and Ofanto drainage. Introduced in southern Italy and Sicily; part of range on Adriatic slope and southernmost localities on Tyrrhenian slope possibly results from introductions (Ref. 59043). Recorded from Ombrone, Albegna, Fiora and Bruna (Ref. 45688). This species has vanished from several lakes in central Italy as a result of transfers of Rutilus aula and other more lacustrine cyprinids. In the rivers of southern Italy, this species tends to deplete the endemic Alburnus albidus and now infests every river. It is still abundant in the Tuscany and Latium regions, especially in small torrential tributaries of the main river basins of the Arno, Ombrome and Tiber Rivers and in isolated small rivers flowing into the Tyrrhenian Sea (Ref. 26100). Prefers running water and is not well adapted in stagnant waters where it is easily excluded by the introduced Leucos aula, Rutilus rutilus and possibly by other introduced, still water-adapted species such as rudds and bleaks (Ref. 96829). Has been in progressive decline (Ref. 45688). Has become invasive wherever it is introduced (Ref. 96829). Also Ref. 12291, 94493.

Status of threat: near threatened (Ref. 59043, 96829).