Longear Sunfish

Lepomis megalotis is widely regarded as the crown jewel of the sunfish family in terms of colouration. Breeding males are breathtaking: the body is suffused with orange, red, and green iridescent scales arranged in intricate patterns, the cheeks bear vivid blue streaks, and the diagnostic black ear flap — the longest of any Lepomis — is edged in white or red. Found throughout the Mississippi Basin and Gulf Slope drainages, it inhabits rocky and gravelly streams with moderate current.

In the aquarium, Longear Sunfish are spirited and active, demanding plenty of open swimming space and strong filtration to replicate the clear, oxygen-rich streams they call home. They establish clear territories, particularly during spawning season, and should be given ample space and visual breaks to reduce inter-fish conflict.

They feed eagerly on a wide variety of live and frozen foods and accept quality pellets without difficulty. Their combination of spectacular colour, accessibility, and manageable size makes them one of the most sought-after native species in the coldwater aquarium hobby.

Water: 15–26 °C, pH 6.5–8.0, moderate hardness; strong current and high oxygen essential. Tank: 200 L minimum; river-style setup with gravel, flat rocks, and open swimming lanes. Feeding: Earthworms, crickets, frozen invertebrates, live crayfish; transitions well to pellets. Breeding: Gravel nest on hard substrate; male fiercely guards — provide female refuge or separate. Compatibility: Semi-aggressive; best with robust similarly sized natives in a spacious tank.