Siniperca fortis — a Percichthyidae from 中国, assertive but manageable with space and structure. Reaches 28–41.1 cm; singly, in pairs, or as a harem — never crowded. 4–22 °C.
Care parameters
Water temperature
4–22 °C
pH
7–7.4
GH hardness
2–5 dGH
Adult length
28–41.1 cm
Minimum tank
500 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Assertive but manageable with space and structure
Origin
中国
Species overview
Siniperca fortis, a member of the family Percichthyidae, is native to 中国. A thinking fish that rearranges décor and learns its keeper — and punishes bare, crowded tanks. It lives on the bottom. Adults reach 28–41.1 cm. Singly, in pairs, or as a harem — never crowded. Over-filter for its messy habits, aquascape with rock walls, and respect its claimed corner. Maintain 4–22 °C at pH 7–7.4. A rewarding species for the aquarist who reads before buying.
Native biotope
Habitat
River rapids and rocky lakeshores
Flow
Moderate to strong current
Dissolved O₂
High
Aquascape & hardware
Substrate
Gravel and rock
Hardscape
Rock piles and boulders
Plants
Hardy species
Temperament, diet & tankmates
Schooling
Singly, in pairs, or as a harem — never crowded
Diet
Accepts all foods; emphasise quality over variety
Recommended tankmates
Large robust catfish — Ignore the posturing below
Avoid keeping with
Small or timid fish — Bullied relentlessly
Breeding & notes
Sexual dimorphism
Breeding colours differ
Breeding method
Cave or substrate spawner with prolonged parental care