Sunfish are popular game fish and have been widely introduced. The common sunfish is closely related to the bluegill and bass. The common sunfish is also known as the pumpkinseed. Description: Size, to 9 in. Long, pointed pectoral fins; small red spot near edge of gill cover. Color orange to olive; sometimes with blue markings on cheek. Habitat: Clear, still water with many submerged plants. Food: Insects, mollusks, and small fishes Range: North Dakota to New Brunswick, south to Kansas, Kentucky, and Georgia.

Common Sunfish Lepomis gibbosis © Joseph R. Tomelleri www.americanfishes.com

Created by: Tyler J. Rowland
Last Update: July 17, 2002
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