Fin's Fish Guide
The Chinese bass (Siniperca chuatsi) is a freshwater fish of the family Sinipercidae that grows up to 70 cm.
East Asia; rivers and lakes from the Amur basin to the Pearl River in China, and Vietnam.
Description
The mandarin fish is a predatory freshwater bass of the family Sinipercidae from East Asia, including China and the Amur basin. The species grows to about 70 cm and has a deep, yellow-brown body with irregular dark blotches and a large mouth. Adults inhabit rivers and lakes with clear, slow-flowing parts. It is a decided piscivore that catches almost exclusively live prey fish, a trait important for its aquaculture. The mandarin fish is a highly valued and expensive food fish in China and is farmed on a large scale. The stout dorsal spines can prick; otherwise it is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Chinese bass?
The Chinese bass has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Catches almost exclusively live prey fishes; highly valued food fish farmed on a large scale in China.
Where does the Chinese bass live?
The Chinese bass lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. East Asia; rivers and lakes from the Amur basin to the Pearl River in China, and Vietnam.
How big does the Chinese bass get?
The Chinese bass grows to a maximum of about 70 cm.
Is the Chinese bass dangerous to humans?
No, the Chinese bass is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Chinese bass edible?
Yes, the Chinese bass is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
Same genus Siniperca
More from the family Sinipercidae
Want the complete picture on the Chinese bass?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Chinese bass is one of 12,519 species in the app.