Green sunfish Care Guide

The Green Sunfish (Lepomis cyanellus) is a striking and dynamic addition to any freshwater aquarium. Understanding its care needs will ensure a healthy and vibrant life for this hardy fish species.

Tank Setup

Green Sunfish are moderately hardy, with a pH tolerance ranging from 6.0 to 9.0, and they require a tank temperature between 18°C and 30°C. When setting up the tank, provide at least 30 liters of water per fish to maintain an optimal environment. These fish can grow to lengths of 10 to 30 cm, so ample space is essential. Green Sunfish use all areas of the tank, including the surface, mid-tank, and bottom levels. Since they have a strong territorial behavior, providing plenty of hiding spaces and decor can help mitigate aggression.

Behavior and Compatibility

Green Sunfish exhibit aggressive and highly territorial behavior, so it's important to consider their tank mates carefully. They may exhibit social and playful traits under certain conditions, but their aggression during breeding can increase significantly, to a highly aggressive level. Keeping them in schools of at least five can help disperse aggression throughout the group, but caution must be exercised if mixing them with less aggressive species.

Feeding

Feeding a varied diet will keep your Green Sunfish healthy and vibrant. Offer a mix of flakes, pellets, and frozen shrimp, along with live food options such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, tubifex worms, daphnia, micro worms, and feeder fish. Supplement their diet with vegetable matter and algae wafers, as well as color enhancing foods to maintain their striking hues. Freeze-dried foods and stick-on tablets are also excellent for rounding out their diet.

Maintenance

These fish require a low maintenance level environment, making them a good choice for moderately experienced aquarists. Monitor water quality regularly and conduct routine water changes to provide a stable environment. Ensure strong filtration is in place to handle the bio-load, especially in group settings.

Affordability and Availability

Green Sunfish are very affordable and are classified as an uncommon species in the aquarium trade. Their moderate popularity makes them accessible for many fish enthusiasts looking to add a unique and colorful species to their collection.

By adhering to these guidelines, you can create a thriving habitat for your Green Sunfish, showcasing their beauty and dynamic nature within your aquarium.