Bluegill
Lepomis macrochirus
Bluegill are freshwater sunfish found in ponds, lakes, reservoirs, and slow rivers, often holding near weeds, submerged branches, or dock pilings. They feed on aquatic insects, small crustaceans, zooplankton, worms, and tiny fish, using quick suction bites to snatch prey. Males build and guard shallow circular nests during spawning, aggressively chasing away intruders much larger than themselves. Their dark ear flap and blue-green facial sheen make them one of the most recognizable North American panfish.
- Type
- Water
- Conservation status
- LC
Growth chain
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- Bluegill