Pumpkinseed

Distribution: The pumpkinseed is native to the upper Mississippi, Great Lakes, and east coast drainages from New Brunswick south to South Carolina.

Description: Pumpkinseeds may be distinguished from other sunfish by a red spot on the rear margin of the operculum, just above the pectoral fin. The pectoral fins are long and pointed and the caudal fin is forked. Adult pumpkinseeds are often striking in color with a dark green back, rust colored spots, and a bright orange belly. There are bluish green streaks on the head radiating out from the mouth and eye.

Species commonly confused with: Redbreast sunfish, bluegill

Habitat: Pumpkinseed sunfish, also known as common sunfish, are an adaptable species capable of living in both lacustrine and riverine habitats. They are usually found associated with aquatic vegetation along the shorelines of lakes and ponds. In rivers and streams pumpkinseeds usually inhabit backwaters and deeper pools with little current, although they may be found in faster moving water if there are slower flowing reaches nearby.

Life History: Pumpkinseed males excavate a circular nest in shallow water, often in groups or colonies. Females spawn with males in multiple nests where the eggs are aggressively defended by the males until they hatch. Pumpkinseeds feed on invertebrates attached to plants or on the bottom. Its jaws are adapted for crushing the shells of snails and other hard-shelled prey.

Origin: Native