Redfin

Interesting Info

• The Redfin (also known as the European Perch) is a freshwater fish introduced to Australia from Europe in the 1860s. It quickly spread and is now common in rivers, lakes, and reservoirs across southern and eastern Australia.
• They are easily recognised by their olive-green body, dark vertical stripes, and bright red-orange fins. The dorsal fin is spiny and often has a dark blotch near the rear.
• Redfin usually grow to 20–35 cm (8–14 in) long and weigh around 200–500 g (0.5–1 lb), but in deep lakes they can reach over 60 cm (24 in) and weigh more than 10 kg (22 lb).
• They are opportunistic predators, feeding on aquatic insects, worms, crustaceans, and small fish. As they grow larger, their diet shifts more towards other fish, including native species and even their own young.
• Redfin are a schooling species, especially when young. Large schools of juveniles are often seen hunting in shallow waters, while adults may become more solitary as they grow.
• Redfin are highly adaptable and thrive in still or slow-moving waters such as lakes, reservoirs, and weedy rivers. They prefer cooler waters and often decline in tropical climates.
• Redfin are a major concern for conservation because they are voracious predators of native fish, including galaxias and pygmy perch, and they also compete for food with other species.
• They can also spread the deadly Epizootic Haematopoietic Necrosis Virus (EHNV), which kills native fish but does not harm humans.
• They spawn in spring when water warms to around 12–15°C. Females lay thousands of sticky eggs in long, ribbon-like strands that wrap around submerged vegetation or branches. The eggs hatch within 1–2 weeks.
• They are sometimes called the “Rabbits of the Water” because of their rapid spread, large numbers, and negative impact on local ecosystems.
• Lifespan is typically 6–10 years, although in cooler waters they can sometimes live longer.