Find a Fish
Redfin Perch
Perca fluviatilis Linnaeus, 1758
An 18 cm long Redfin Perch from Tuppal Creek, New South Wales, March 1999. Photo: M. McGrouther © Australian Museum.
K. Parkinson taking water quality readings at the Tuppal Creek capture site. In the foreground is a fish capturing device called an electrofisher. Photo: M. McGrouther © Australian Museum.
The Redfin Perch can be recognised by its pattern of six or more tapering bands on the sides of the body, a distinct black blotch at the rear of the first dorsal fin, and red pelvic, anal and caudal fins. It has a humped back behind the head, a large mouth, a slightly forked caudal fin, and two dorsal fins (the first with 13-17 strong spines).
It grows to 60 cm in length and 10.4 kg in weight. It is common up to 45 cm.
The Redfin Perch is usually found in still and slow flowing freshwaters. It feeds on crustaceans, worms, molluscs, insect larvae and smaller fishes.
It was introduced to Australia from Europe around 1860. Since that time it has become widespread throughout much of New South Wales and Victoria. It is also known from south-eastern South Australia, Tasmania and south-western Western Australia.
Related links
- View a Redfin Perch scale
Further Reading
- Allen, G.R. 1989. Freshwater Fishes of Australia. T.F.H. Publications. Pp. 240.
- Allen, G.R., Midgley, S.H. & M. Allen. 2002. Field Guide to the Freshwater Fishes of Australia. Western Australian Museum. Pp. 394.
- McDowall, R.M. 1996. Freshwater Fishes of South-Eastern Australia. Reed Books. Pp. 247.
- Merrick, J.R. & G.E. Schmida. 1984. Australian Freshwater Fishes. Biology and Management. John R. Merrick. Pp. 409.
