Identification
The green sunfish is a small, stocky fish of 10 to 20 cm with a broad, short head and a remarkably large mouth for its size. Color is olive-green to blue-green with an irregular pattern of blue and green spots on the flanks. The gill cover has a dark spot with a light border. The pectoral fins are short and rounded.
Behavior & ecology
The green sunfish is aggressive and territorial despite its small size. It fiercely defends its territory against larger fish and eats almost anything: insects, small fish, amphibian larvae, and even other sunfish species. This aggression and versatility make it a successful invader. Males dig nests in shallow water and guard the eggs.
In the Netherlands
The green sunfish is occasionally found in Dutch waters, likely as a result of aquarium releases. The related pumpkinseed (Lepomis gibbosus) is already widespread in the Netherlands; the green sunfish is much rarer. The species can threaten native small fish through its aggressive nature.
