SUNFISH FAMILY
FROM KEY 6
BLUEGILL
Lepomis macrochirus
IDENTIFICATION
Gill cover tab dark color to edge. Dark
spot at base of dorsal fi n. Light
colored vertical barring often present.
INFORMATION
Average size:
•
Average adult size is 6–9 inches, but rarely over
8 inches in most Nebraska reservoirs. A 10 inch or
1 lb. bluegill is a master angler. The state record bluegill
weighed in at 2 lbs. 13 oz.
Habitat:
•
Warm water species.
•
Prefers clear water but can tolerate turbid conditions. A bluegill's primary diet is aquatic insects that are
often found in submerged vegetation. Therefore, clear water that can support plant life is important to
this species. Submerged vegetation also provides cover for bluegills to hide from predators.
•
Seeks submerged vegetation and can be found near underwater structures like fl ooded timber and brush
piles.
Range:
•
Statewide, very common.
FROM KEY 6
GREEN SUNFISH
Lepomis cyanellus
IDENTIFICATION
Gill cover tab dark with bronze or
yellow margin. Fins often fringed in
yellow or cream colored band.
Green worm shaped markings on cheeks.
INFORMATION
Average size:
•
Average adult size is 6–8 inches. A master angler is 1 lb. or 10 inches. The Nebraska state record is 1 lb. 8 oz.
Habitat:
•
Found in streams, rivers, ponds, and reservoirs.
•
Can tolerate turbidity, low oxygen levels, and high temperatures.
•
Often found within the spaces between rocks of rip-rap covered shorelines. Seldom strays from cover habitat.
Range:
•
Statewide, very common.
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FISH KEY
SUNFISH FAMILY
