Micropterus salmoides
Family
Centrarchidae (Sunfishes)
Order
Perciformes (perch-likes) )
Class
Actinopterygii (ray-finned fishes)
Maximum Size
97.0 cm TL (male/unsexed; Ref. 5723); max. published weight: 10.1 kg; max.
reported age: 23 years
Environment
Benthopelagic; freshwater; pH range: 7.0 - 7.5; dH range: 10.0 ;
depth range - 7 m
Climate
Temperate; 10 - 32°C; 47°N - 26°N
Importance
fisheries: minor commercial; aquaculture: commercial; gamefish: yes; aquarium: public aquariums
Resiliance
Low, minimum population doubling time 4.5 - 14 years (K=0.06-0.14; tm=3-5; tmax=11; Fec=2,000)
Distribution
The species has been introduced widely as a game fish and is now cosmopolitan. Several countries report adverse ecological impact after introduction.
Diagnosis
Dorsal spines (total): 10-10; Dorsal soft rays (total): 11-14; Anal spines: 3-3; Anal soft rays: 10-12; Vertebrae: 30-32. Mouth large; maxillary extending beyond the eye. Pelvic fins not joined by a membrane. Green to olive dorsally, milk-white to yellow ventrally, with a black band running from the operculum to the base of the caudal fin. Caudal fin rounded. Caudal fin with 17 rays.
Biology
Inhabits clear, vegetated lakes, ponds, swamps. Also in backwaters and pools of creeks and rivers. Prefers quiet, clear water and over-grown banks. Adults feed on fishes, crayfish and frogs; young feed on crustaceans, insects and small fishes. Sometimes cannibalistic. Does not feed during spawning; as well as when the water temperature is below 5°C and above 37°C.
