Fin's Fish Guide
The Longear sunfish (Lepomis megalotis) is a freshwater fish of the family Centrarchidae that grows up to 24 cm.
Fresh water of central and eastern North America, in clear streams, rivers and lakes with abundant plants.
Description
The longear sunfish is a small, colourful sunfish of the family Centrarchidae reaching about 24 cm but usually smaller. The deep, laterally compressed body is one of the most vivid in the group, with yellow-orange, blue and green tints and wavy blue lines over head and flank. Characteristic is the long, black-edged gill-cover flap - the 'ear'. The dorsal fin holds stout spines. The species lives in clear streams, rivers and lakes with plants in central and eastern North America. It hunts insects, small crustaceans, molluscs and fish eggs. The male makes a nest pit and fiercely guards the eggs and young. It is a popular panfish and aquarium fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Longear sunfish?
The Longear sunfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly multicoloured and shows a spots pattern. Colourful sunfish with a long, black opercular flap (the 'ear') and winding blue lines across head and flank.
Where does the Longear sunfish live?
The Longear sunfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Fresh water of central and eastern North America, in clear streams, rivers and lakes with abundant plants.
How big does the Longear sunfish get?
The Longear sunfish grows to a maximum of about 24 cm. On average the species is around 12 cm.
Is the Longear sunfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Longear sunfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Longear sunfish edible?
Yes, the Longear sunfish is commonly eaten.
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All data
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Status & sources
Same genus Lepomis
More from the family Centrarchidae
Want the complete picture on the Longear sunfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Longear sunfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.