Green Sunfish and Similar Species
Lepomis cyanellus
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Open the appSeveral fish can be confused with Green Sunfish. Here are the key differences.
Species often confused with {name}
Bluegill
Lepomis macrochirus
Key differences: Bluegill have a smaller mouth that does not extend past the front of the eye, a solid black opercular flap without a pale margin (though sometimes a faint red spot is present), and a distinct black spot at the base of the posterior dorsal fin rays. Pectoral fins are longer and more pointed.
Pumpkinseed
Lepomis gibbosus
Key differences: Pumpkinseeds have a smaller mouth, a black opercular flap with a bright red or orange spot on the posterior margin, and wavy blue lines on the operculum and head. Their body is typically more speckled with orange and blue spots.
Warmouth
Lepomis gulosus
Key differences: Warmouths have a larger mouth than Green Sunfish, often extending past the middle of the eye, and typically have 3-5 distinct dark bars radiating from the eye. They also have teeth on the tongue, which Green Sunfish lack. Their opercular flap is usually dark with no distinct pale margin.
Orangespotted Sunfish
Lepomis humilis
Key differences: Orangespotted Sunfish are smaller, have a more elongated body, and are covered in numerous bright orange spots. Their opercular flap is black with a white or yellow margin, but their overall coloration and spot pattern are distinct.
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