Fin's Fish Guide
The Pirate perch (Aphredoderus sayanus) is a freshwater fish of the family Aphredoderidae that grows up to 14 cm.
Fresh water of eastern North America, in calm, densely vegetated streams, swamps and ditches with soft bottoms.
Description
The pirate perch is a small, dark bottom fish of the family Aphredoderidae reaching about 14 cm; it is the only living species of its family. The stocky, brown body is dark-speckled and bears spines in the dorsal and anal fins. Its most remarkable feature is that the anus shifts forward during growth, to just under the throat in adults - unique among fishes. The species lives hidden among plants, roots and leaf litter in quiet, densely vegetated streams, swamps and ditches of eastern North America. Mainly at night it hunts insect larvae, small crustaceans and worms. Because of its camouflage and hidden lifestyle it is rarely noticed.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Pirate perch?
The Pirate perch has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Small, dark bottom-dwelling perch in which the anus has shifted towards the throat in adults; well camouflaged among plants and roots.
Where does the Pirate perch live?
The Pirate perch lives in fresh water and is mostly found around algae or seagrass beds. Fresh water of eastern North America, in calm, densely vegetated streams, swamps and ditches with soft bottoms.
How big does the Pirate perch get?
The Pirate perch grows to a maximum of about 14 cm. On average the species is around 10 cm.
Is the Pirate perch dangerous to humans?
No, the Pirate perch is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Pirate perch edible?
The Pirate perch is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Want the complete picture on the Pirate perch?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Pirate perch is one of 12,519 species in the app.