NPSpecies

Data Source: See observation

Park Species Detail: Morone americana, white perch (semi-anadromous, native)The white perch inhabits both brackish and fresh waters from Nova Scotia to South Carolina. It is commonly found in fresh waters of coastal rivers, lakes, ponds and inland reservoirs. However, it prefers low-salinity sounds. The average life span of the white perch is 5 to 7 years. They may live as long as 17 years. The average adult size is 100-170 mm. White perch are carnivores. Large perch feed on crabs, shrimps and small fishes (alewives, anchovies) and smaller perch feed on zooplankton and aquatic insects. White perch are semi-anadromous, migrating from brackish water to fresh water to spawn. Spawning occurs in the Spring from April to June at water temperatures varying from 51 °- 60°F. Males attain sexual maturity at 2 years, whereas females reach maturity at 4 years. Eggs are released in shallow waters and adhere to submerged objects.