What common trait links Perca flavescens to walleye within Family Percidae?
Answer
Presence of two separated dorsal fins
Members of the Family Percidae, which includes the Yellow Perch (*Perca flavescens*), the walleye (*Sander vitreus*), and the sauger, frequently share the morphological characteristic of possessing two distinct and separated dorsal fins. This shared feature is an important identifier for grouping these related species within the Perch Family. In contrast, features like the presence of large canine teeth are used to differentiate them from *Perca flavescens*, which lacks such teeth. The presence of two separate dorsal fins is a foundational trait uniting these commercially and recreationally significant spiny-rayed fishes.

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