It prefers warm, shallow water
and often occurs near vegetation in ponds, lakes, and stagnant reaches of streams and rivers.
This frequently encountered fish is native to east-central North America, including the eastern
slope of Colorado, and has been widely introduced elsewhere.
It prefers warm, shallow water
and often occurs near vegetation in ponds, lakes, and stagnant reaches of streams and rivers.
The
green sunfish is tolerant of drought conditions and is one of the last species remaining in residual
pools of intermittent streams.
Known to eat small fish, its diet consists mainly of aquatic and
terrestrial invertebrates.
It is a commonly caught game fish and can be taken with live bait or
artificial lures, but its small size reduces its sport value.
This fish tends to overpopulate and
often hybridizes with other sunfishes.
Maximum Length: 8-12 inches (21-31 cm).
