Como identificar Bluegill

Para identificar Bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus), observe estas características principais.

Características físicas

Formato do corpo

compressed

Coloração

Highly variable. Generally olive-green to dark blue on the back, fading to lighter green or yellow on the sides, and a yellow to orange or reddish belly. Breeding males often display intense orange or red on the breast and belly. Seven to eight vertical bars may be present on the sides, more prominent in juveniles. A distinct dark spot is present on the posterior margin of the operculum.

Tipo de escama

ctenoid

Posição da boca

terminal

Características distintivas

Small mouth, not extending past the front of the eye., Long, pointed pectoral fins., Dark, flexible opercular flap (ear flap) without a red or orange margin., Often has a dark blotch at the posterior base of the dorsal fin.

Nadadeira dorsal

Single dorsal fin, deeply notched, with 10-11 spines in the anterior part and 10-12 soft rays in the posterior part.

Nadadeira caudal

Slightly forked caudal fin.

Nadadeira peitoral

Long and pointed, typically extending past the eye when bent forward, with 13-14 rays.

Nadadeiras características

Anal fin with 3 spines and 10-12 soft rays. Pelvic fins are thoracic.

Dicas de identificação

1. 1

   Opercular Flap

   Look for a solid black or dark blue opercular flap (ear flap) without any red or orange trim. This distinguishes it from many other sunfish species.

2. 2

   Pectoral Fins

   The pectoral fins are notably long and pointed, often extending beyond the front of the eye when pressed forward.

3. 3

   Mouth Size

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

4. 4

   Dorsal Fin Spot

   A dark blotch is often present at the posterior base of the soft-rayed portion of the dorsal fin.

5. 5

   Body Coloration

   While variable, the overall body shape and the presence of vertical bars (especially in juveniles) combined with the other features are key.

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