Baby Albino Chinese Perch (3”)

Species Overview

• Scientific Name: Siniperca chuatsi (albino variant)

• Common Names: Albino Chinese Perch, Albino Mandarin Fish (not to be confused with Synchiropus splendidus)

• Family: Sinipercidae (Chinese perches)

• Origin: China, and parts of Eastern Asia

• Temperament: Predatory, solitary, territorial

• Lifespan: 10+ years in captivity with good care

 Habitat

• Natural Environment:
  Found in large rivers, lakes, and reservoirs with calm or slow-moving waters. Prefers cooler, oxygen-rich environments with plenty of hiding spots like submerged logs, overhangs, and aquatic vegetation.

• Water Conditions:

  • Temperature: 60–77°F (16–25°C)

  • pH: 6.5–7.5

  • Hardness: Moderate (8–15 dGH)

  • Requires excellent water quality and oxygenation

Diet

• Carnivorous / Piscivorous:
  In the wild, feeds primarily on:

  • Small fish

  • Crustaceans

  • Insects and larvae

• In Captivity:
  Feed a varied, protein-rich diet:

  • Frozen or thawed fish fillets

  • Prawns or shrimp

  • Occasionally worms or high-protein pellets (if accepted — they may refuse dry food)

   

 Maximum Size

• In the Wild: Up to 80 cm (31 inches) and 8 kg (17.6 lbs)

• In Captivity: Commonly reaches 45–60 cm (18–24 inches)

Recommended Aquarium Size

• Minimum Tank Size:

  • 180 gallons (680 liters) for a single adult

  • Larger tanks or ponds are ideal, especially for fully grown specimens

• Tank Setup:

  • Strong filtration and low flow

  • Soft substrate or bare-bottom tank for easier cleaning

  • Dim lighting or shaded areas (they're shy and light-sensitive due to albinism)

  • Plenty of cover: driftwood, large rocks, PVC tubes, etc.

  • Chiller may be necessary in warmer climates to maintain proper temperature range

• Tank Mates:
  Solitary species due to predation and aggression. If kept with others, tank mates must be:

  • Larger than the perch’s mouth

  • Equally hardy and robust

  • Non-aggressive but not timid

 Notes on Behavior

• Ambush predator! sits still, then strikes rapidly

• Sensitive to water quality fluctuations, so proper maintenance and monitoring is important. 

• Can be difficult to wean off live food