Louisiana State Freshwater Fish

White Perch

(Pomoxis annularis)

Adopted in 1993.

The White Perch (poxomis annularis, sac-au-lait) was designated the official state freshwater fish of Louisiana in 1993 by Acts 1993, No. 460, §1.

Description of the Louisiana State Fish

Pomoxis is Greek for "opercle sharp" and refers to the fact that the fish's gill covers have spines. The word annularis is Latin for "having rings" and refers to the dark bands (vertical bars) around the body. The white crappie is deep-bodied and silvery in color, ranging from silvery-white on the belly to a silvery-green or even dark green on the back. There are several vertical bars on the sides. The dorsal fin has a maximum of six spines. Males may develop dark coloration in the throat region during the spring spawning season.

Common Name

White Crappie, sac-a-lait, papermouth, goggleeye, white perch

Other Common Names

Biology

Like other members of the sunfish family, white crappie are nest builders. They are similar to bluegills in that they tend to nest in relatively large "beds," and they have very high reproductive potential which often leads to overpopulation and stunting in small lakes and impoundments. White crappie nest in the spring, generally when water temperatures reach 65°F to 70°F. However, spawning activity has been observed at temperatures as low as 56°F. Fry hatch in three to five days, but remain attached to nest substrate by an adhesive substance from the egg for a few more days. Just before leaving the nest, fry free themselves by vigorous swimming actions. Once free, they begin feeding on microscopic animals. Although fry do not appear to school, fingerlings do. Schools with large numbers of individuals are often found in the middle of lakes. Typically, white crappie grow three to five inches in length the first year, and reach seven to eight inches during the second year. Maturity is usually reached in two to three years. Adults feed on small fish and insects.

Reproduction

Like other members of the sunfish family, White Crappie are nest builders. They are similar to bluegills in that they tend to nest in relatively large "beds," and they have very high reproductive potential which often leads to overpopulation and stunting in small lakes and impoundments. White Crappie nest in the spring, generally when water temperatures reach 65°F to 70°F. However, spawning activity has been observed at temperatures as low as 56°F. Fry hatch in three to five days, but remain attached to nest substrate by an adhesive substance from the egg for a few more days.

Statute

Louisiana Legislature Archives
§170.4.  State freshwater fish
There shall be an official state freshwater fish.  The official state freshwater fish shall be the white perch (poxomis annularis, sac-au-lait).  Its use on the official documents of the state and with the insignia of the state is hereby authorized.

Acts 1993, No. 460, §1.

Taxonomic Hierarchy of the White Perch