Redfin, Perca fluviatilis Linnaeus, 1758

Scientific name: Perca fluviatilis
Alternative name/s:
Redfin Perch, English Perch, European Perch, Reddie
Redfin, <i>Perca fluviatilis</i> Click to enlarge image
A Redfin, Perca fluviatilis, at a depth of 30cm, Blowering Dam, 24 December 2008. Image: Sascha Schulz
© Sascha Schulz

Fast Facts

  • Classification
    Genus
    Perca
    Species
    fluviatilis
    Family
    Percidae
    Order
    Perciformes
    Class
    Actinopterygii
    Subphylum
    Vertebrata
    Phylum
    Chordata
    Kingdom
    Animalia
  • Size Range
    Much of the Australian popular literature gives a maximum size of 60 cm and weight 10.4 kg. This appears to be anecdotal with no official figures indicating that the species grows this large. Redfin commonly grow to 40 cm to 45 cm in length and weights of 1 kg to 2 kg.

Introduction

The Redfin was introduced to Australia from Europe around 1860. Since that time it has become widespread throughout much of New South Wales and Victoria.

Identification

The Redfin can be recognised by its pattern of six or more tapering bands on the sides of the body, a distinct black blotch at the rear of the first dorsal fin, and red pelvic, anal and caudal fins. It has a humped back behind the head, a large mouth, a slightly forked caudal fin, and two dorsal fins, the first with 13-17 strong spines.

Redfin fish
A Redfin at a depth of 3 m, Blowering Dam, New South Wales, 16 November 2008. Image: Sascha Schulz
© Sascha Schulz

Habitat

It is usually found in still and slow flowing freshwaters.

Distribution

In Australia it is recorded from New South Wales, Victoria, south-eastern South Australia, Tasmania and south-western Western Australia.

The map below shows the Australian distribution of the species based on public sightings and specimens in Australian Museums. Source: Atlas of Living Australia.

Feeding and diet

Food items include crustaceans, worms, molluscs, insect larvae and smaller fishes.

References

  1. Allen, G.R. 1989. Freshwater Fishes of Australia. T.F.H. Publications. Pp. 240.
  2. Allen, G.R., Midgley, S.H. & M. Allen. 2002. Field Guide to the Freshwater Fishes of Australia. Western Australian Museum. Pp. 394.
  3. Hoese, D.F., Bray, D.J., Paxton, J.R. & G.R. Allen. 2006. Fishes. In Beesley, P.L. & A. Wells. (eds) Zoological Catalogue of Australia. Volume 35. ABRS & CSIRO Publishing: Australia. parts 1-3, pages 1-2178. McDowall, R.M. 1996. Freshwater Fishes of South-Eastern Australia. Reed Books. Pp. 247.
  4. Merrick, J.R. & G.E. Schmida. 1984. Australian Freshwater Fishes. Biology and Management. John R. Merrick. Pp. 409.