The Russian River tule perch (Hysterocarpus traskii) is a brackish-water fish of the family Embiotocidae that grows up to 15 cm.
Description
The tule perch (Hysterocarpus traskii) is the only freshwater species of the family Embiotocidae (surfperches) and is endemic to California. The species has a deep, laterally compressed, silvery-grey body, sometimes with cross-bars, and reaches about 15 cm. It inhabits pools and runs with mud to gravel bottoms of low-elevation rivers and lakes, usually near emergent aquatic plants or overhanging banks. Like all surfperches the species is livebearing and bears relatively large, well-developed young. The diet consists of small invertebrates. Owing to habitat loss the species has declined locally.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Russian River tule perch?
The Russian River tule perch has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a vertical stripes pattern.
Where does the Russian River tule perch live?
The Russian River tule perch lives in brackish water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom.
How big does the Russian River tule perch get?
The Russian River tule perch grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Russian River tule perch dangerous to humans?
No, the Russian River tule perch is harmless to humans.
Is the Russian River tule perch edible?
The Russian River tule perch is not usually eaten.
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More from the family Embiotocidae
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