Jade Perch (2.5-3.5cm)

Jade Perch

Jade perch are often overlooked as an aquarium fish because they get their spotlight more so as an aquaponic species due to their fast growth and splendid eating qualities. They are, however, an incredibly underrated species to add to a large predator-themed aquarium, to add a ton of activity and movement to the aquarium. Predatory fish species often take a very long time to reach their maximum size and can be difficult to keep; however, jade perch fall very far out of this.

Reaching their max size of 35cm in around 12-14 months, they are a fish you can literally see growing in front of your eyes. Their thick but streamlined shape and their boisterous attitude make them an active swimmer and great dither style fish for larger aquariums. They are most commonly recognised by their colour scheme, which ranges from a grey to cream colour with a slight green tint. They have the classic perch body with large pointed fins that have a blue tinge, and most notably, an array of random black spots they develop as they age. 

Being a native Australian fish found in central Queensland, they are a naturally tropical species that thrive in a temperature range from 24-28 degrees. They also have a fairly mean temperament compared to other Australian perches which is why they are best suited to a predator Australian tank, but will make for a really different addition to any predator fish-themed aquarium. Breeding the jade perch is common and is done throughout the world in large aquaculture facilities through the use of hormone injections. Getting them to spawn naturally in the home aquarium, though, is a difficult task as they usually need specific environmental queues.

Being inherently known for their great aquaponic capabilities, jade perch are often the go-to selection. Their great feed-to-yield ratio and speed of growth are the two main winning factors. They also have firm, white flesh with minimal bones, which is similar in taste, look, and texture to ocean species like snapper. The LiveFish team also regularly stocks economical and bulk quantities of jade perch for aquaponic purposes as well!

Tank Recommendations for your Jade Perch

Jade perch max out at around 30-35 cm with a hefty body, which makes them a large fish. Their activity level, size, and temperament make them a fish that needs a large aquarium, with the bare minimum volume being 450 litres; however, a larger aquarium will always be better. Jade perch can be kept solitary, but can also tolerate other tank mates that match or exceed their size.

Because they are an open water fish, the substrate lower section of the aquarium is not a large concern; a loose sandy substrate with smooth river stones and the use of driftwood would give a great river aesthetic. Jade perch are also big herbivores that will end up eating plants; the plants they don't eat will usually end up getting shredded to bits as well.

Suitable Tank Buddies

Because of their boisterous attitude and the slight aggression these fish can show to tank mates, it is best to keep with similarly sized and tempered tank mates. Jade perch are not a territorial species but have a pack mentality where they pick on the smaller fish to assert dominance. They also often outcompete tank mates due to their voracious appetite, which has a flow-on effect of weak and hungry fish if this isn't monitored properly.

Usually Compatible

Silver perch, barramundi, Tandanus catfish, peacock bass, jaguar cichlids, and larger predator species

Sometime Compatible

Peaceful perch species like Macquarie perch, along with cichlids like Oscar, Jack Dempsey, and less tempered species.

Rarely Compatible

African cichlids, yoyo loaches, angelfish, and species that will be picked on or outcompeted by the jade perch.

Feeding your Jade Perch

You will probably never encounter a fish as easy to feed as the jade perch; they have massive appetites and eat until they can't swim because of the weight. They take to a wide range of foods, but it is best to feed them a pellet food that has a mix of both protein and green-rich ingredients.