Fin's Fish Guide
The Banded sunfish (Enneacanthus obesus) is a freshwater fish of the family Centrarchidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
The banded sunfish is a small sunfish (family Centrarchidae) from eastern North America. The species reaches only about 9.5 cm and has a stocky, laterally compressed body with dark crossbands and fine, iridescent spots on the flanks. It inhabits heavily vegetated lakes, ponds and sluggish pools and bends of creeks and rivers with sand or mud bottoms. As a small predator it feeds on aquatic insects and other small invertebrates. In the breeding season males build and guard a nest. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Banded sunfish?
The Banded sunfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Dark vertical bars and iridescent spots; males build and guard a nest.
Where does the Banded sunfish live?
The Banded sunfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Freshwater of eastern North America, along the Atlantic coastal plain.
How big does the Banded sunfish get?
The Banded sunfish grows to a maximum of about 10 cm. On average the species is around 6 cm.
Is the Banded sunfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Banded sunfish is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Banded sunfish edible?
The Banded sunfish is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Enneacanthus
More from the family Centrarchidae
Want the complete picture on the Banded sunfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Banded sunfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.