Golden Perch

The Golden Perch (Macquaria ambigua), also known as Yellowbelly, is one of Australia’s most iconic native freshwater fish. Widely distributed throughout the Murray-Darling Basin and other inland river systems, the Golden Perch is prized for both its angling appeal and suitability in aquaculture, farm dams, and large display aquariums. With a powerful build, hardy nature, and striking golden-yellow tones, this species is well-adapted to a range of environments and water conditions. Shop native Australian fish online delivered with confidence with our livestock guarantee. Features of Golden Perch (Yellowbelly) • Native to the Murray-Darling Basin and other inland Australian river systems • Distinct golden to olive colouring with a deep, muscular body • Grows up to 60 cm in length and can exceed 10 kg in the wild • Hardy and adaptable to a wide range of water parameters • Best suited to farm dams, aquaponics, or large aquariums • Popular among recreational anglers and aquaculture producers The Best Aquarium Size for Golden Perch Golden Perch require a large, open swimming area due to their size and active nature. Juveniles can be housed in tanks of 300 litres or more, but adults will need upwards of 800 litres for long-term care. They are best kept in wide tanks or ponds with ample oxygenation and water movement. Covered tanks are advised, as they can be powerful jumpers. Check out these suitable aquarium brands: Yiding Tanks Aqua One Tanks Fluval Aquariums Oceason Aquariums After an Aquarium for your fish? Browse Aquarium Tank Selection here. Tank Mate Compatibility for Golden Perch Golden Perch are semi-predatory and may eat smaller fish, so tank mates should be of equal or larger size. Suitable companions include: • Silver Perch • Tandanus Catfish • Sleepy Cod (with caution) • Large Rainbowfish • Eel-Tailed Catfish Diet for Golden Perch Golden Perch are carnivorous by nature but adapt well to a pellet-based diet in captivity. Feed high-protein native fish pellets and supplement with live or frozen foods such as earthworms, yabbies, prawns, whitebait, or insects. Feed once or twice daily, and adjust portion size based on water temperature and activity level. Check out our extensive range of aquarium fish foods. Aquarium Setup for Golden Perch Aquarium Filtration Use a high-capacity canister or sump filter capable of handling a large bioload. Strong biological and mechanical filtration is essential for water clarity and fish health. Shop our comprehensive range of aquarium filters here. Aquarium Plants Live plants are not essential and may be uprooted. If used, select hardy species like Vallisneria or floating plants for cover. Artificial plants are also suitable for shelter and structure. Interested in live plants for your aquarium? View our range of live aquarium plants here. Aquarium Lighting Moderate lighting is sufficient to mimic natural conditions. Avoid overly bright setups as Golden Perch prefer shaded or dim environments, especially when resting. Aquarium Heating Maintain a stable temperature range between 20–28°C. While they tolerate cooler water, consistent mid-range temperatures support optimal growth and activity. Aquarium Substrate Use natural substrates like fine gravel or sand to replicate riverbed conditions. These are ideal for foraging and contribute to a stable tank ecosystem. View our range of aquarium substrates here. Aquarium Decorations Provide large rocks, driftwood, and logs to create hiding areas and reduce stress. Ensure decor is secure and does not obstruct swimming space, as Golden Perch require room to move freely. View our large range of aquarium decorations here.