Bluegill and Similar Species
Lepomis macrochirus
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Open the appSeveral fish can be confused with Bluegill. Here are the key differences.
Species often confused with {name}
Pumpkinseed
Lepomis gibbosus
Key differences: Pumpkinseeds have a red or orange spot on the posterior margin of the opercular flap, which Bluegill lack. Pumpkinseeds also typically have wavy blue lines on their cheeks and operculum, and shorter, more rounded pectoral fins.
Green Sunfish
Lepomis cyanellus
Key differences: Green Sunfish have a much larger mouth that extends past the front of the eye. Their opercular flap has a light-colored margin, and they often have iridescent blue-green spots on their body and fins. Their pectoral fins are shorter and more rounded than Bluegill's.
Redear Sunfish
Lepomis microlophus
Key differences: Redear Sunfish have a distinct red or orange margin on their opercular flap (hence 'redear'). They also lack the vertical bars often seen on Bluegill and have a more pointed snout.
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