Fin's Fish Guide
The Redbreast sunfish (Lepomis auritus) is a freshwater fish of the family Centrarchidae that grows up to 31 cm.
Fresh water of eastern North America, mainly in flowing rivers and streams with vegetated or stony banks.
Description
The redbreast sunfish is a colourful sunfish of the family Centrarchidae reaching about 30 cm. The deep, golden-yellow body has blue streaks on the cheek, an orange to red breast and a strikingly long, narrow, jet-black gill-cover flap - the 'ear' from which the species takes its name. The species is native to the fresh water of eastern North America and lives, unlike many relatives, mainly in flowing rivers and streams with vegetated or stony banks. It hunts insects, crustaceans, snails and small fish. In late spring the male makes a nest pit on gravel and guards the eggs and young. For anglers it is a willing, colourful panfish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Redbreast sunfish?
The Redbreast sunfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a spots pattern. Colourful sunfish with small blue lines on the cheek, an orange breast and a strikingly long, black opercular flap (the 'ear').
Where does the Redbreast sunfish live?
The Redbreast sunfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Fresh water of eastern North America, mainly in flowing rivers and streams with vegetated or stony banks.
How big does the Redbreast sunfish get?
The Redbreast sunfish grows to a maximum of about 31 cm. On average the species is around 11 cm.
Is the Redbreast sunfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Redbreast sunfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Redbreast sunfish edible?
Yes, the Redbreast sunfish is commonly 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 Redbreast sunfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Redbreast sunfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.