Higher-level classification
Ray-finned fishes in the clade Percomorpha, mainly within the orders Perciformes and Moroniformes.
Bass
Bass is a common name for many ray-finned fish in the clade Percomorpha, found in both freshwater and marine environments.
Last Updated Mar 9, 2026 · 4 sources
Species Guide
What to know about basses
A clean field guide focused on habitat, identification, behavior, and conservation context without burying the useful parts.
Bass is a common name shared by many species of ray-finned fish from the large clade Percomorpha. Species commonly called bass mainly belong to the orders Perciformes and Moroniformes and include both freshwater and marine species. The English word "bass" comes from Middle English "bars", meaning "perch", though commonly referred bass species do not belong to the perch family Percidae.
Identification
How to identify basses
The visual markers divers can use underwater, plus the species most likely to cause confusion.
Key identification markers
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Responsible Encounters
How to dive with basses
Conservation-minded guidance for divers who want the encounter without adding pressure.
Give bass space, avoid blocking the animal's path, and follow local site and operator rules for wildlife interactions with freshwater fishes.
Field Notes
Interesting things worth knowing
Useful species context that makes the encounter more meaningful once you are underwater.
Field notes
Name origin
The word "bass" derives from Middle English "bars", which meant "perch".
Taxonomic note
Although the name suggests a relation to perch, commonly called bass species are not in the perch family Percidae.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Clear planning and conservation answers written for search visibility and AI retrieval.
Research Sources
Bass information sources
Primary and credible references behind the field-guide and conservation claims on this page.
Sources 4Last Updated
Bass | Freshwater, River, Lake | Britannica · Reference · Britannica
Primary wildlife guide source.
U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service · Reference · U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
Supporting wildlife source.
U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service · Reference · U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
Supporting wildlife source.
Bass (fish) · Encyclopedia · Wikipedia
Supporting wildlife source.
Related Species
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