Perch

D-Flussbarsch; GB-Perch, European perch; DK-Aborre; PL-Okoń pospolity; LT-Ešerys; LV-Asaris; EST-Ahven; RU-Речной окунь; FIN-Ahven; S-Abborre

Characters

1) Two dorsal fins; front one with strong spines.
2) Black spot on posterior part of first dorsal fin.
3) Flanks with 5 to 9 black stripes, which extend to lower body half, but not down to abdomen.
●) Body side coloursation yellow or brownish; pelvic and anal fins orange to red.
Usually 20 to 30 cm, max. 60 cm length.

Similar species

Ruffe - both dorsal fins are fused together; many small black spots on dorsal and anal fins.

Pike-perch - caudal and dorsal fins with many small spots; head longer.

European seabass - uniform silvery colouration; dorsal fin without black spot.

Biology

Lives near the bottom between plants, roots and stones. Adults are solitary, young individuals form small swarms. Hunts during daytime. Spawning season from February to July. Perches need water temperature under 10°C over several months for the production of sperms and egg cells.

Diet

Feeds on smaller fish and insect larvae.

Importance

Locally an important food fish.

Endangerment

Not endangered.