Fin's Fish Guide
The Dollar sunfish (Lepomis marginatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Centrarchidae that grows up to 12 cm.
Southeastern United States, in sand- and mud-bottomed, often vegetated pools of streams, small rivers and swamps.
Description
The dollar sunfish is a small North American sunfish (family Centrarchidae). The species reaches about 12 cm and has a deep, laterally compressed, green to golden body with blue lines on the head. It inhabits sand- and mud-bottomed, often brushy pools of creeks, small to medium rivers and swamps. Its diet consists of midge larvae, other insect larvae and small invertebrates. Males guard nest pits on the bottom. The species is harmless to humans and, because of its small size, of little fishery value.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Dollar sunfish?
The Dollar sunfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly green and shows a spots pattern. Small, colourful sunfish with blue head lines; males guard nest pits.
Where does the Dollar sunfish live?
The Dollar sunfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Southeastern United States, in sand- and mud-bottomed, often vegetated pools of streams, small rivers and swamps.
How big does the Dollar sunfish get?
The Dollar sunfish grows to a maximum of about 12 cm. On average the species is around 7 cm.
Is the Dollar sunfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Dollar sunfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Dollar sunfish edible?
The Dollar sunfish is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Lepomis
More from the family Centrarchidae
Want the complete picture on the Dollar sunfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Dollar sunfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.