What is a perch in the ecosystem?

In an ecosystem, a perch typically refers to a type of fish belonging to the family Percidae, which includes species like the yellow perch. These fish are commonly found in freshwater environments such as lakes and rivers, where they play a crucial role as both predator and prey. As predators, they help control populations of smaller fish and invertebrates, while also serving as food for larger predators, contributing to the overall balance of the aquatic food web. Their presence can indicate the health of the ecosystem, as they are sensitive to changes in water quality and habitat conditions.