Fin's Fish Guide
The Estuary perch (Macquaria colonorum) is a brackish-water fish of the family Percichthyidae that grows up to 75 cm.
Description
The estuary perch is a temperate perch (Percichthyidae) from southeastern Australia. The species has an elongate, laterally compressed, dark body with a humped back and a large mouth. It inhabits estuaries and the lower reaches of coastal rivers and moves to brackish water to spawn. As a predator it ambushes small fishes, shrimps and crustaceans. It is a valued sport fish. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Estuary perch?
The Estuary perch is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Humped back and a big mouth; estuarine ambush predator and valued sport fish.
Where does the Estuary perch live?
The Estuary perch lives in brackish water and is mostly found around open water. Southeastern Australia; estuaries and lower reaches of coastal rivers.
How big does the Estuary perch get?
The Estuary perch grows to a maximum of about 75 cm. On average the species is around 45 cm.
Is the Estuary perch dangerous to humans?
No, the Estuary perch is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Estuary perch edible?
Yes, the Estuary perch is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Macquaria
More from the family Percichthyidae
Want the complete picture on the Estuary perch?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Estuary perch is one of 12,519 species in the app.