Bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus)

Fish in the family Centrarchidae. Moderate care. Freshwater.

Bluegill

Quick facts

Scientific nameLepomis macrochirus
FamilyCentrarchidae
Also known asBluegill Sunfish, Bream
Care levelModerate
Reef safetyFreshwater
TemperamentSemi Aggressive
DietCarnivore
Adult size10 in
Minimum tank size75 gallons
Water parametersTemp 45-80°F, pH 6.5-8.0, GH 6-20 dGH

Appearance

Deep-bodied North American sunfish, olive-green with faint bars, an orange breast and a black opercular 'ear' flap.

Difficulty and care for the Bluegill

Moderate

Origin and habitat

North America

Keeper notes

Greedy, boisterous predator that eats anything it can swallow and bullies smaller tankmates. Needs robust company.

Log Bluegill in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Bluegill alongside everything else in your reef.