Fin's Fish Guide
The European perch (Perca fluviatilis) is a freshwater fish of the family Percidae that grows up to 60 cm.
Widespread in fresh and slightly brackish water of Europe and North Asia, in lakes, canals, rivers and ponds.
Description
The European perch is a common predator of the family Percidae reaching about 60 cm but usually smaller. The stout body is greenish with five to nine dark vertical bars, a spiny first dorsal fin with a black spot at the rear edge and conspicuous red-orange pelvic and anal fins. The species lives in fresh and slightly brackish water of Europe and northern Asia, such as lakes, canals, rivers and ponds, often in small groups near structure like water plants, posts and jetties. Young perch eat insect larvae and crustaceans, older fish hunt small fish. In spring the perch lays its eggs in long, net-like strands. The perch is a popular sport and food fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the European perch?
The European perch has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly green and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Greenish with five to nine dark vertical bars, a spiny first dorsal fin with a black blotch at the rear and red-orange pelvic and anal fins.
Where does the European perch live?
The European perch lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Widespread in fresh and slightly brackish water of Europe and North Asia, in lakes, canals, rivers and ponds.
How big does the European perch get?
The European perch grows to a maximum of about 60 cm. On average the species is around 25 cm.
Is the European perch dangerous to humans?
No, the European perch is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the European perch edible?
Yes, the European perch is commonly eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the European perch and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Perca
More from the family Percidae
Want the complete picture on the European perch?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the European perch is one of 12,519 species in the app.