Fin's Fish Guide
The Black crappie (Pomoxis nigromaculatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Centrarchidae that grows up to 49 cm.
Fresh water of eastern and central North America, in clear lakes, ponds and slow-flowing rivers with abundant aquatic plants; widely introduced elsewhere.
Description
The black crappie is a deep sunfish of the family Centrarchidae reaching about 49 cm but usually smaller. The strongly compressed, silvery-green body is speckled with irregular black blotches and has a large, scoop-shaped mouth. The species is native to the fresh water of eastern and central North America and lives in schools in clear lakes, ponds and slow-flowing rivers with abundant water plants and structure. It hunts insects, small crustaceans and small fish. In late spring the male makes a nest pit and guards the eggs and young. With its white, tasty flesh the black crappie is one of the most popular panfish of North America and is widely stocked.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Black crappie?
The Black crappie has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Deep-bodied, silvery-green sunfish scattered with irregular black blotches; a popular panfish with a large, scoop-shaped mouth.
Where does the Black crappie live?
The Black crappie lives in fresh water and is mostly found around algae or seagrass beds. Fresh water of eastern and central North America, in clear lakes, ponds and slow-flowing rivers with abundant aquatic plants; widely introduced elsewhere.
How big does the Black crappie get?
The Black crappie grows to a maximum of about 49 cm. On average the species is around 28 cm.
Is the Black crappie dangerous to humans?
No, the Black crappie is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Black crappie edible?
Yes, the Black crappie is a highly prized food fish.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
Same genus Pomoxis
More from the family Centrarchidae
Want the complete picture on the Black crappie?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Black crappie is one of 12,519 species in the app.