Redbreast sunfish Care Guide

The Redbreast Sunfish (Lepomis auritus) is a popular choice among aquarium enthusiasts due to its colorful appearance and interesting behavior. It is also known for its adaptability in aquariums, making it moderately easy to care for.

Tank Setup

The Redbreast Sunfish requires a tank that can accommodate its active nature and need for swimming space. A minimum tank size of at least 38 liters per fish is recommended, and it is ideal to keep them in a group with a minimum school size of six individuals. Given its aggressive and highly territorial behavior, a well-decorated tank with plenty of hiding spots is essential to reduce stress and territorial conflicts. Suitable decorations could include rocks, driftwood, and aquatic plants, creating multiple territories within the tank. The Redbreast Sunfish is comfortable dwelling across various tank levels, including the surface, middle, and bottom, so the setup should provide cover at all levels.

Water Conditions

This species thrives in a wide range of water conditions, with a pH range of 6.0 to 8.0 and a temperature range of 15°C to 30°C. Maintenance involves regular water changes and monitoring to ensure water parameters remain stable. The maintenance level is categorized as low, making it a suitable choice for aquarists who have some experience in fishkeeping.

Feeding

The Redbreast Sunfish is omnivorous and requires a varied diet to maintain optimal health and coloration. A balanced diet should include both high-quality commercial and live foods. Suitable options are flakes, pellets, bloodworms, brine shrimp, tubifex worms, daphnia, and freeze-dried foods. Additionally, incorporating vegetable matter, algae wafers, and color-enhancing foods can benefit their diet. Feeder fish and stick-on tablets can also be provided occasionally for enrichment and variety.

Behavior and Compatibility

The Redbreast Sunfish exhibits social behavior, but it may become semi-aggressive, especially when breeding. It is noted to show moderately more aggressive behavior during breeding periods, necessitating monitoring and possible segregation into a breeding tank. Despite their aggression, they often coexist with other moderately peaceful fish if given adequate room and cover to establish territories.

Breeding

Breeding Redbreast Sunfish in captivity can be rewarding, though their moderately aggressive nature during this time requires attention to tank mates and territories. Providing a separate breeding tank might mitigate aggressive tendencies and facilitate successful spawning. They are moderately territorial, which underscores the need for a thoughtful approach to tank organization during this period.

Overall, the Redbreast Sunfish is a moderately hardy and resilient species, well-suited for hobbyists with some experience. Its affordable nature and least concern conservation status make it a sustainable choice for home aquariums.