Pumpkinseed Sunfish

Pumpkinseed Sunfish Lepomis gibbosus

Identification
This sunfish has bright orange and blue markings.

Location
Common statewide

Size
4 to 10 inches

Diet
It feeds on insects small fish and snails.

Habitat
It occurs in ponds lakes and rivers.

Activity Period
Year round

Behavior
It is territorial during breeding. It is active year round.

Lifecycle
Breeding occurs in summer.

Population
The population is stable statewide.

History
It has long been widespread in Ohio.

Human Interactions
It often interacts with anglers.

Facts
It is one of the most colorful freshwater fish.

Sources
ODNR academic sources

Insects small fish snails | Ponds lakes slow rivers | Statewide