Redear Sunfish and Similar Species
Lepomis microlophus
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Open the appSeveral fish can be confused with Redear Sunfish. Here are the key differences.
Species often confused with {name}
Bluegill
Lepomis macrochirus
Key differences: Bluegill have a solid black opercular flap (no red/orange margin), a prominent black spot at the base of the soft dorsal fin, and a larger mouth that extends to or past the front of the eye. Their pectoral fins are typically shorter and more rounded.
Green Sunfish
Lepomis cyanellus
Key differences: Green Sunfish have a larger mouth extending well past the front of the eye, a black opercular flap with a pale margin (often yellowish or white, not red/orange), and often iridescent blue-green spots on the body. Their body is more robust and less compressed than the Redear.
Pumpkinseed
Lepomis gibbosus
Key differences: Pumpkinseed have a red spot on the opercular flap, but it is typically smaller and more intense, often surrounded by a pale margin. They also have wavy blue lines on their cheeks and operculum, and often have numerous small orange spots on their sides, features absent in Redear Sunfish.
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