Shiner perch

The shiner perch (Cymatogaster aggregata) is a common surfperch found in estuaries, lagoons, and coastal streams along the Pacific coast from Alaska to Baja California. It is the sole member of its genus. The shiner perch is also known as seven-eleven and shiner seaperch.

Habitat

It is one of the most common fish in the bays and estuaries of its range, favoring beds of eelgrass, and often accumulating around piers as well. While typically residing in shallow waters, it has been observed at depths up to 120 metres (390 ft). It can also live in brackish waters.

Distribution

Shiner perch range from Punta Baja, Northern Baja California, to Saint John Baptist Bay near Sitka in Southeastern Alaska.

Behaviour

It primarily feeds on zooplankton such as copepods and gammarid amphipods, but has also been observed to feed on bottom species like small crustaceans, marine worms, and mollusks. It also feeds on fish eggs.