Northern sunfish Profile

The Northern sunfish (Lepomis peltastes) features a vibrant palette, typically showcasing hues of green and blue on its body, with speckles and sometimes a reddish-orange edge on its opercular flap, giving it a distinctive appearance. Originating from freshwater environments in North America, this species prefers habitats with abundant vegetation. Characterized by its laterally compressed body and relatively small size, it is not as well-known in the aquarium hobby as other sunfishes, such as the bluegill or pumpkinseed sunfish, but it possesses a unique beauty that could appeal to enthusiasts looking for a native species to add to their collection.