The humble spangled perch is one of Australia’s most widely distributed native freshwater fish.
Usually around 15-20cm long, they can grow to about 25cm and 500g, although bigger fish have been recorded.
Often caught as a bycatch while chasing bass in our local creeks and rivers, spangled perch are one tough little native. They’re hardy enough to share their habitat with the introduced tilapia and survive conditions that knock around plenty of other freshwater fish, tolerating temperatures from around 5°C to 44°C.
Survival Habits, Diet, and Table Qualities
They feed on insects, small crustaceans, molluscs and small fish, and don’t mind having a go at something almost as big as themselves. I’ve also kept them in aquariums, where they can be little bullies, chasing other fish around and eating anything smaller than them.
They’re not just good fun on light gear, either. Spangled perch can be surprisingly good eating – from clean water.
Read more stories from the Chermside Guide’s print magazine here:
- The Calm Before the Storms: What Jobs to Tackle Now
- Get Hands-On at Gaming and Hobby Expo
- Organic Gardening in November
- Thank Your Teacher With a Thoughtful Gift
- The Fox
- Podcast Review: The Pub Quiz Pod
- Chermside Connect: Updates from the Community
- What’s Hot Around Town
- Local Kids Leave Colourful Mark on Beams Road Project
- A Springtime Scheme for Growl Theatre
- Brisbane Apollo Male Choir Still Singing After 140 Years
- New Conductor Leads End-of-Year Concert
- Carols, Community and Christmas Cheer at All Saints
- Kedron Football Club
- New Community Event for Board Game Lovers
- Rick Price Brings Nostalgic Show to Nundah
- Stafford Men’s Shed to Hold Garage Sale
- Tricia Stringer Shares New Novel with Readers
- Zonta Campaign Calls to End Violence Against Women
