If perch are predators...Then why do they have bright red fins in clear water rivers?

[Reynolds2k7]

as the title says...i just dont understand why they would have bright red fins in clear rivers when they are camouflaged except for their fins.

It makes no sence (to me anyways)

the most vivid colours i have ever seen which i caught today



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[luke carpstalker]

Colours we see out of water are not neccessarily what fish see underwater.

[rjays]

Looks pretty dark from above though

[Reynolds2k7]

i know that red is one of the first colours of the absorption to disappear underwater, buts thats usualy around 5m-10m deep.....in rivers that are 3ft max you can see their fins easily...but when i was fishing the shannon 40ft deep perch were very dark as were their fins. I know that could be due to their diet/environment. i just found it odd

[phillyfingers]

I dont think a perch's red fins would frighten small roach & rudd (prey fish) on the contary, it could fool them into thinking its another shoal member!

[Reynolds2k7]

Iv just realised how the title sounds and i do know that they are predators just to clarify....and i see what you mean but its just kind of weird how they are quite well camouflaged except for their fins

[John Sharpe]

i think it has something to do with communication, as with roach and rudd too apparently. don't quote me but i seem to remember hearing/reading this somehwere.

[Mark bettsy]

My thinking behind this.... is, the red fins may act as a lure???? possaibly to other fish, easy pickings for the perch then???? my theroy any way