This study describes the occurrence and the impact of Heteropolaria sp. in intensively cultured perch (Perca fluviatilis). Heteropolaria sp., in association with Aeromonas sp., form a symbiotic complex which may induce severe pathology in intensively cultured perch. This colonial ciliate is most frequently detected in winter when it colonizes the spiny dorsal fin of young perch and spreads all over the body in older individuals. High population density favours the propagation of Heteropolaria sp.: the infestation frequency in 40 g perch after two months of rearing at 23 degrees C was 10, 50 and 91%, at stocking densities of 303, 602 and 1 974 fish m(-3), respectively. High temperatures and repeated handling (e.g. sorting) also increase the risks of infestation.