Scientific Name: Lepomis macrochirus

Residency: Non-native in Arizona - native from Quebec to northern Mexico in the Great Lakes and Mississippi river basin - introduced in parts of the western U.S., South America and Africa.

Habitat: Prefers deep beds of weeds in lakes, ponds and slow-moving streams.

Diet: Insects, minnows, worms, small crayfish, and snails; younger individuals feed on insects, worms, and small crustaceans.

Breeding: Occurs In June: males become boldly colored and guard a nest for females to lay eggs. Some males assume female coloration to sneak into other males nests and fertilize eggs.

Status: Not considered threatened. Can pose a threat in areas where it has been introduced

Photo: To be added.

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