Pumpkinseed Sunfish (Lepomis gibbosus)

Pumpkinseed sunfish (Lepomis gibbosus), often just referred to as “pumpkinseeds”, are a beautiful species of sunfish primarily native to the northeastern United States, although they have been introduced elsewhere. Pumpkinseed can often be found in the same habitats as bluegill and other related sunfish however they are less tolerant of warm water in comparison to bluegill. 

Widely regarded as one the best-looking North American sunfish, or even best-looking North American fish in general, these colorful sunfish are popular amongst recreational fishermen throughout their range. Understandably, they are also popular amongst native fish keepers and make for stunning and personable captives in aquaria.  

Origin: Pumpkinseed sunfish may be available either as hatchery bred and raised or field-collected animals. They have gone through a preventative quarantine and treatments as necessary. 

*Inquire directly about quantity discounts.*

Some may have minor cosmetic imperfections such as an imperfect fin or old scar.

Care Level: Beginner.

Diet: Primarily carnivores, mostly feeding on various aquatic invertebrates and smaller fish. They will readily accept prepared foods/pellet foods. 

Adult Size: Average 4”-6”, over 8” is possible but not common. 

pH: 6.5-8.0

Water Temp: 60-78F is ideal in a captive setting, however they can tolerate temperatures outside of these ranges.

Other Care Preferences: Care should be taken when picking tankmates as pumpkinseed can be aggressive. Other similarly sized panfish, catfish, and cichlids can make for good tankmates.

NEVER release your fish into the wild or stock public waterways without permission from a government agency!

*We are a licensed dealer and propagator of reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates, and fish in the state of Pennsylvania. All of our native and game fish (including bullfrogs, northern green frogs, and their tadpoles) come from licensed dealers and propagators with proof of receipt (available upon request to government agencies only). We WILL NOT under ANY circumstance sell any herptiles or fish collected from the commonwealth of PA, so please do not ask!*

Live pumpkinseed sunfish (Lepomis gibbosus) for sale at MJS Reptiles. Live tropical and North American fish, reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates for sale online and shipped right to your front door!