Aquarium perch | Facts & Information

Aquarium perch

The aquarium perch, also known as the aquarium pike, is a fascinating and popular animal among aquarium enthusiasts. This fish species belongs to the family Percidae and is native to Central and Eastern Europe. Its scientific name is Perca fluviatilis, and the perch can be found in almost all types of freshwater, including rivers, lakes, and ponds. With its distinct beauty and interesting behavior, this fish is often seen as an excellent choice for home aquariums.

The physical appearance of the aquarium perch is certainly impressive. This species can reach up to 30 centimeters in length, but in aquariums, it rarely exceeds 15-20 centimeters. The perch has an elongated shape, with small scales and variable coloration depending on its environment. It usually has a green-olive or green-brown color, with dark spots on the upper part of its body. The fish is also recognized for the presence of a variable number of vertical black or brown stripes on its sides.

Another impressive characteristic of the aquarium perch is its large mouth armed with powerful teeth. This adaptation has allowed it to survive in the harsh environment of freshwater. Its eyes are also large and vibrant, adding extra charm to its appearance. The perch also has a large and divided dorsal fin, as well as well-developed ventral, anal, and caudal fins. These fins help it move quickly in the aquatic environment and give it excellent hunting capabilities.

The behavior of the aquarium perch is also very interesting. These fish are very active and energetic, which is why they need plenty of space in the aquarium. In general, perches are predators and feed on smaller fish, crustaceans, and invertebrates. Although they can be fierce, these fish are social and can be kept together with other species that are not too small or aggressive. It is important to provide the perch with enough quality food and to respect its comfort needs in the aquarium.

Caring for the aquarium perch requires attention and adequate knowledge. The size and quality of the aquarium are important factors to understand before deciding to raise perch. Considering its relatively large size, an aquarium of at least 200 liters is usually recommended for a single perch. It is also important to provide suitable substrate, live plants, and hiding places to recreate a natural environment as much as possible.

Another key aspect of caring for the perch is incorporating a balanced diet into its feeding. Although they are carnivorous, these fish also accept plant-based food, such as spirulina-based pellets. It is recommended to offer them protein-rich food to ensure healthy growth and vibrant coloring of the fish.

In conclusion, the aquarium perch is a captivating and lively animal that can bring a lot of joy and satisfaction to aquarium owners. With its distinct beauty, active behavior, and proper care requirements, the perch is certainly an excellent choice for those who are passionate about aquariums. It is important to respect the needs of this fish and provide the right environment to ensure its health and happiness in the aquarium.