Fin's Fish Guide
The Australian bass (Macquaria novemaculeata) is a fish that lives in both fresh and salt water of the family Percichthyidae that grows up to 65 cm.
Description
The Australian bass is a perch-like fish of the family Percichthyidae from the coastal rivers of eastern Australia. The species reaches about 65 cm and has a stocky, brown to bronze body. It is a catadromous migrant: adults live in fresh water in coastal rivers and migrate to the estuaries in winter to spawn, after which the young return to fresh water. The diet consists of crustaceans, insects and small fishes. The species is a very popular and valued game fish, fished with lures and strictly regulated.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Australian bass?
The Australian bass has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Catadromous sport fish that grows up in fresh water and spawns in estuaries.
Where does the Australian bass live?
The Australian bass lives in both fresh and salt water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Coastal rivers of eastern Australia.
How big does the Australian bass get?
The Australian bass grows to a maximum of about 65 cm. On average the species is around 30 cm.
Is the Australian bass dangerous to humans?
No, the Australian bass is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Australian bass edible?
Yes, the Australian bass is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Macquaria
More from the family Percichthyidae
Want the complete picture on the Australian bass?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Australian bass is one of 12,519 species in the app.