Redbreast sunfish (Lepomis auritus)

Scientific name: Lepomis auritus Linnaeus, 1758

The Redbreast sunfish (Lepomis auritus) is a freshwater fish of the family Centrarchidae. In the aquarium it needs water at 4–22°C (39–72°F). Native range: North America, Eastern Rivers of USA and Canada. At least one country reports adverse ecological impact after introduction.

Redbreast sunfish care at a glance

Temperature: 4–22°C (39–72°F)

Biology

Rocky and sandy pools of creeks and small to medium rivers; rocky and vegetated lake margins. Adults feed on terrestrial insects and both immature and adult aquatic insects, particularly larger varieties such as mayflies and dragonflies. Juveniles consume benthic organisms such as dipteran larvae.

Source: FishBase, licensed CC BY-NC 4.0.

Species facts

Scientific name: Lepomis auritus
Family: Centrarchidae (Sunfishes)
Order: Perciformes (Perch-like fish)
Class: Actinopterygii (Ray-finned fishes)
Maximum length: 30.5
Common length: 10.8
Environment: Freshwater;; pH range: 7.0 - 7.5; dH range: 15 - ? demersal
Climate: Temperate
Distribution: North America: Eastern Rivers of USA and Canada. At least one country reports adverse ecological impact after introduction.
Conservation status (IUCN): Least Concern (LC)
Threat to humans: Potential pest
Uses: Gamefish: yes; aquarium: commercial
Resilience: Medium, minimum population doubling time 1.4 - 4.4 years (Fec=1000)