Fin's Fish Guide
The Everglades pygmy sunfish (Elassoma evergladei) is a freshwater fish of the family Elassomatidae that grows up to 3 cm.
Southeastern USA; swamps and densely vegetated, slow-flowing ditches and small streams.
Description
The Everglades pygmy sunfish is a tiny fish of the pygmy sunfish family (Elassomatidae) from the south-eastern United States. The species grows to only about 3.5 cm; courting males turn glossy black with blue glittering spots. It inhabits swamps, densely vegetated, slow-flowing sloughs and small streams with abundant water plants. As a small hunter it feeds on small zooplankton, water fleas, insect larvae and other small invertebrates. Despite its name it is not a true sunfish. The species is popular with enthusiasts of small aquarium fishes and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Everglades pygmy sunfish?
The Everglades pygmy sunfish has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly black and shows a plain pattern. Tiny; courting males glossy black with blue glittering spots, not a true sunfish.
Where does the Everglades pygmy sunfish live?
The Everglades pygmy sunfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Southeastern USA; swamps and densely vegetated, slow-flowing ditches and small streams.
How big does the Everglades pygmy sunfish get?
The Everglades pygmy sunfish grows to a maximum of about 3 cm. On average the species is around 2 cm.
Is the Everglades pygmy sunfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Everglades pygmy sunfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Everglades pygmy sunfish edible?
The Everglades pygmy sunfish is not usually eaten.
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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 Everglades pygmy sunfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Everglades pygmy sunfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.