Bass & Panfish
Redear Sunfish
Lepomis microlophus
FreshwaterCentrarchidaeLeast Concern
About
The Redear Sunfish is a freshwater fish known for the red or orange margin on the operculum flap of males. They are typically found in quiet, vegetated areas of lakes, ponds, and slow-moving streams and are bottom feeders, often foraging for snails and other invertebrates.
- Average size
- 4-10 inches, 0.5-2 lbs
- Colors
- Olive-green to brownish-yellow body with lighter sides, dark vertical bars may be present, and a red or orange margin on the operculum flap (more prominent in males).
- Diet
- Primarily snails, insects, and other invertebrates found on the bottom of water bodies. They are known for their ability to crush snail shells.
- Region
- Southeastern United States, but widely introduced throughout the US