Fin's Fish Guide
The Yellow perch (Perca flavescens) is a freshwater fish of the family Percidae that grows up to 50 cm.
Fresh water of northern and eastern North America, in lakes, ponds and slow-flowing rivers.
Description
The yellow perch is a yellow-green perch of the family Percidae reaching about 50 cm but usually smaller. It closely resembles the European perch, with six to eight dark, vertical bars across the golden-yellow flank, orange-red pelvic and anal fins and a spiny first dorsal fin. The species is native to the fresh water of northern and eastern North America and lives in schools in lakes, ponds and slow-flowing rivers. It hunts insect larvae, crustaceans, small fish and fish eggs. In early spring the female lays the eggs in long, pleated gelatinous ribbons among water plants. With its white, tasty flesh it is one of the most popular panfish of North America.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Yellow perch?
The Yellow perch has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Yellow-green perch with six to eight dark, vertical bands and orange-red pelvic fins; a spiny first dorsal fin.
Where does the Yellow perch live?
The Yellow perch lives in fresh water and is mostly found around algae or seagrass beds. Fresh water of northern and eastern North America, in lakes, ponds and slow-flowing rivers.
How big does the Yellow perch get?
The Yellow perch grows to a maximum of about 50 cm. On average the species is around 19 cm.
Is the Yellow perch dangerous to humans?
No, the Yellow perch is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Yellow perch edible?
Yes, the Yellow perch is a highly prized food fish.
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All data
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Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
Same genus Perca
More from the family Percidae
Want the complete picture on the Yellow perch?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Yellow perch is one of 12,519 species in the app.