Unusual Catch!

Walt & I reported earlier, in the New England States Forum, about our catch, which may be the last of the season. Winter is closing in fast unfortunately. The interesting take on this report was the "yellow" perch that Walt caught. It looked almost albino, in that it had no yellow coloration.

So, Walt sent the picture to the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries & Wildlife to get a clarification on this peculiar fish. Here is the picture and what they had to say about it:



Comments from the MDFW:

"Thanks for the email. This is most likely a genetic variant of yellow perch which contain blue pigments on the mucus and epidermis. These are known to occur, although rare, among perch and walleye (family Percidae), and even pike and pickerel (Esocidae). We have had a handful of reports of these. There is evidence in the midwest that blue perch and walleye occurred in much higher numbers decades ago and that they may have represented a separate species. So you're catch likely has some of those genes. Also they aren't always bright blue, they often look pale and faded but the yellow pigment is usually absent or reduced. Nice catch and thanks again!"

And another follow up from those folks:

"These fish lack the yellow pigment in the skin. “blue” perch and Walleye are known from the Midwest. The blue walleye actually have a blue pigment in the mucus. A true Albino lacks all pigment and is pure white. Google “Blue Perch” or “Blue Walleye” for more info."

Quite the catch for our area. Thought some of you would be interested. It was also released unharmed. Hope they produce more!