Silver Perch (Bidyanus bidyanus)

Description
Silver perch grow to 70 cm (7.7kg). They can live for up to 10 years, reaching sexual maturity at 2-3 years of age (23-24cm in length). The body is predominantly dull black over a background of olive-green. The small scales are dark-margined giving the fish a netted appearance. They have silvery sides and a white belly.

Habitat/Distribution
The silver perch, is a freshwater finfish native to the Murray Darling River system of Australia. Significant wild populations are located in both north eastern New South Wales and south eastern Queensland. Small communities are found in the colder regions of Victoria. These fish prefer the faster flowing reaches of rivers. Hatchery-reared fingerlings have been stocked in south-east Queensland impoundments, with some success. Throughout the Murray-Darling system populations are greatly reduced and these fish are now considered threatened. Silver perch migrate upstream to spawn in early summer. They feed on small insects, shrimp, molluscs, worms, small fish and plant material.

Aquaculture Potential
Silver perch have become a well-established part of the Australian Aquaculture Industry. As a relatively robust species, they readily take to artificial floating feed making them exceptional aquaculture species. They are capable of handling temperatures of 8-32°C without significant mortalities. They generally grow best at temperatures of 18°C+, and the northern location of Condabilla Fish farm enables us to capitalise on this.

Condabilla Fish farm currently grows Silver Perch to 600g in approximately 18 months.

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