European Perch

Physical Characteristics

This species is characterized by its greenish body with 5-9 vertical dark bars and distinct reddish-orange pelvic, anal, and caudal fins. It has two dorsal fins, the first having 13 to 20 sharp spines with a prominent black spot at the rear base. The body is covered in rough ctenoid scales.

Habitat & Distribution

Widely distributed throughout Eurasia in lakes, ponds, slow-flowing rivers, and brackish waters. They prefer areas with submerged vegetation, tree roots, or structures that provide cover and are generally found in temperate zones.

Size & Weight

Standard size is typically 25 to 35 cm and 0.5 to 1 kg. Maximum recorded length is 60 cm and a maximum weight of nearly 3 kg, though individuals this large are rare.

Similar Looking Species

Yellow Perch (Perca flavescens) which is native to North America and usually smaller with more yellowish flanks; Zander (Sander lucioperca) which lacks the vertical bars on its sides and has a more elongated body.

Ecological Role

Acts as an opportunistic mesopredator, feeding on zooplankton, macroinvertebrates, and smaller fish. It serves as an important prey species for larger predators like Pike. It is currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN due to its wide distribution and stable population.

Identified on: 1/2/2026

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