The Redfin
perch grows to a length of about 40cm. The earliest recorded
introduction into Australia was in 1862, but it was possibly
introduced even earlier than that. It is found in both the Murray
Darling Basin and in the Gulf streams. It is a desired sporting
fish and is reported to be good eating, consequently it is widely
stocked in dams and watercourses for recreational angling.
This
species prefers slow moving water that has aquatic vegetation
growth, and is able to feed on a wide range of foods including
crustaceans and molluscs. They are heavy predators of ther
fish species. Under the right conditions, the Redfin is able
to breed rapidly. The eggs are laid in a gelatinous mass and
are unpalatable to other fish.
Redfin
perch are considered to be a major threat to our native fish
species. Release following capture is illegal.
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