Fin's Fish Guide
The Carolina Pygmy Sunfish (Elassoma boehlkei) is a freshwater fish of the family Elassomatidae that grows up to 3 cm.
Description
The Carolina pygmy sunfish is a very small freshwater fish from the southeastern United States, in the coastal plain of the Carolinas. The species reaches only about 3 cm; courting males colour up beautifully black with rows of shining blue spots, while females are an inconspicuous brown. It lives in densely vegetated, slow swamps, ditches and pools and feeds on small zooplankton and insect larvae. Owing to habitat loss the species is under pressure. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Carolina Pygmy Sunfish?
The Carolina Pygmy Sunfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly black and shows a spots pattern. Courting male black with glossy blue spots; small swamp pygmy perch
Where does the Carolina Pygmy Sunfish live?
The Carolina Pygmy Sunfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Southeastern United States
How big does the Carolina Pygmy Sunfish get?
The Carolina Pygmy Sunfish grows to a maximum of about 3 cm. On average the species is around 2 cm.
Is the Carolina Pygmy Sunfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Carolina Pygmy 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 Carolina Pygmy Sunfish edible?
The Carolina Pygmy 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 Elassoma
More from the family Elassomatidae
Want the complete picture on the Carolina Pygmy Sunfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Carolina Pygmy Sunfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.