PUMPKINSEED SUNFISH 



Lepoiuis gibhosus (Linnaeus) 



The pumpkinseed is distributed from southern Canada to the Gulf 

 States and is common in the Great Lakes region. Schools of pumpkin- 

 seed may be found swimming around weedy areas or over and around 

 rocky stretches. They seem to prefer weedy lakes and ponds containing 

 warm waters. 



Spawning of the common sunfish may be anytime within a period 

 extending from the first of June until the beginning of August. Peak of 

 spawning lies between the end of June and the beginning of July. Like 

 the yellowbelly, nests are built in colonies by males. These nests are con- 

 structed in shallow water and may be made over mud, gravel, or sand. 

 After the nest is completed the male lures the female into the nest and 

 spawning takes place. Fertilized eggs drop to the bottom. The male 

 guards the eggs preventing their destruction by small fishes. 



Food of the pumpkinseed sunfish in Maine has been reported as 

 molluscs, terrestrial insects, and plant material. Most of the food is 

 bottom fauna with snails making up a large portion. 



Size of the pumpkinseed in Maine varies between 6 and 10 inches. 

 The pumpkinseed is little sought by the anglers of Maine. 



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