How to Identify Redbreast Sunfish

To identify Redbreast Sunfish (Lepomis auritus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Overall olive to brownish-green on the back, fading to lighter flanks. The belly is typically yellow to orange, becoming bright red or orange-red in breeding males (hence 'redbreast'). Opercular flap is black with a red or orange margin. Iridescent blue-green spots or streaks may be present on the head and operculum. Fins are often dusky or yellowish.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Very long, black opercular (ear) flap, often extending well past the posterior margin of the operculum, without a red or white margin (though the operculum itself may have a red margin)., Bright red to orange-red breast and belly in adult males, especially during spawning., Relatively small mouth, not extending past the front of the eye., Absence of a dark spot on the posterior dorsal fin (unlike many other sunfish).

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin with 10-11 spines followed by 10-12 soft rays. The spiny and soft-rayed portions are broadly connected.

Tail fin

Slightly forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Rounded and relatively short pectoral fins.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin with 3 spines and 8-11 soft rays. Pelvic fins are thoracic.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Opercular Flap

   The most reliable distinguishing feature is the very long, entirely black opercular flap, which lacks any red or white trim on the flap itself (though the operculum may have a red margin). This flap is noticeably longer than in most other sunfish species.

2. 2

   Coloration

   Look for the characteristic red to orange-red breast and belly, especially prominent in males. The body is generally olive-brown with iridescent blue-green markings on the head.

3. 3

   Dorsal Fin Spot

   Absence of a distinct dark spot on the posterior portion of the dorsal fin, which is present in many other sunfish like the Bluegill.

4. 4

   Mouth Size

   Its mouth is relatively small, not extending past the anterior margin of the eye.

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