How to Identify Silver Perch

To identify Silver Perch (Bidyanus bidyanus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Adults are typically silvery-grey to dark grey on the back, fading to a lighter silver or white on the belly. Juveniles may have faint dark spots or bars on their flanks, which fade with age. Fins are generally dusky.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Deep, compressed body, Small head relative to body size, Slightly concave dorsal profile, Small, terminal mouth, Large, ctenoid scales

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin with 10-12 strong spines and 10-13 soft rays. The spiny and soft-rayed portions are continuous.

Tail fin

Moderately forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins are relatively small and rounded.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin has 3 spines and 7-9 soft rays. Pelvic fins are thoracic.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Shape

   Look for a deep, laterally compressed body, which gives it a 'perch-like' appearance.

2. 2

   Coloration

   Observe the silvery-grey body, often darker on the back and lighter on the belly. Juveniles may have faint spots.

3. 3

   Head and Mouth

   Note the relatively small head and small, terminal mouth.

4. 4

   Dorsal Fin

   Identify the single, continuous dorsal fin with prominent spines in the anterior portion.

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