A medium-sized panfish with distinctive red-orange breast in males.

Also called: Redbreast, Yellowbelly Sunfish

Native status: Native to southeastern US

§ Quick facts

SizeLength 18–30 cm; record 40 cm
Weight100–600 g; record 1.0 kg
LifespanWild 6–10 years
OrderCentrarchiformes
FamilyCentrarchidae

§ Encyclopedia

The redbreast sunfish is a species of freshwater fish in the sunfish family (Centrarchidae) of the order Centrarchiformes. The type species of its genus, it is native to the river systems of eastern Canada and the United States. The redbreast sunfish reaches a maximum recorded length of about 30 centimetres (12 in).

Source: Wikipedia — Redbreast sunfish Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

§ Identification

Field marks. Compact panfish with long pointed gill cover flap (black with red-orange margin in males); brilliant orange-red breast in breeding males; blue and orange marbling on body.

Similar species. Other Lepomis sunfish species (different gill cover markings). Bluegill (round ear-flap; spotted gill cover).

Voice. Silent.

§ Diet & behavior

Diet. Aquatic insects, crayfish, small fish, occasional snails.

Behavior. Most stream-adapted of US sunfishes. Lives in clear flowing rivers and streams of southeastern North America. Males develop brilliant orange-red breast and belly in breeding season — among the most colorful US panfish. Active predator; willing to strike artificial lures meant for bass.

§ Range

Eastern US

§ Habitat

Streams, rivers, ponds

§ Threats

Habitat loss.

§ Conservation status

According to the IUCN Red List, the redbreast sunfish is currently classified as Least Concern.

§ What helps

Support stream conservation.

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§ Further reading

§ Sources cited

  • American Fisheries Society
  • State wildlife agencies
  • IUCN Red List 2013