Perch Inquiry
Aneil Marathi PRE-AP BIOLOGY MARCH 13, 2014- GUZMAN
Lab Objectives
Students will learn about the external and internal anatomy of a perch. Students will focus on the organs, structures, and functions of the organism's circulatory system. Students will also understand the ecological role of perch.
Background Information
Perch thrive in a variety of aquatic ecosystems. Perca flavescens belongs to the kingdom Animalia under the phylum Chordata. Perch are major game fish and can be found and are eaten all over the world.
Perch have developed many different adaptations over millions of year. Some of these include gills and specialized fins to control precise movements in the water. Swim bladders aid in perch's ability to float.
Habitats
Perch live in lakes, rivers, and other aquatic environments in North America. Perch are native to the Atlantic, Great Lakes-St Lawrence River, and Mississippi River basins to name a few.
Predators/ Prey
Perch are tertiary consumers, preying on zooplankton, crustaceans, insects, and fish eggs. Quite a few animals prey on perch such as larger fish, birds, and frogs.
Niche
Perch serve as game fish and serve a key role in inhibiting the spread of insects by eating insect eggs and the insects themselves.
Internal and External Anatomy
Circulatory System
A perch's circulatory system is a low-pressure, single loop, closed system. Deoxygenated blood is pumped from the two-chambered heart to the gills, where the blood becomes oxygenated. From there, the blood goes to the rest of the body, returning to the heart. All of the parts of the system work together to keep the fish moving and alive.
Human Impact
Humans rely on perch around the continent for food and recreation. Although perch are constantly predated on by humans, they are by no means endangered, seeing as the reproduce many times a year.
Fun Facts!!
Perch only spawn in 45-55 degrees Fahrenheit.
The largest perch ever caught was 4lb 3oz.
Perch are one of the most populous fish in the world!!
FLY TV - Fly fishing for big Perch