centrarchid

Centrarchids, or centrarchids, are a family of freshwater ray-finned fishes native to North America. The family, which includes familiar sport fishes such as the largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, rock bass, sunfishes, and crappies, is placed within the order Perciformes. Species in this family occupy a variety of freshwater habitats, including lakes, rivers, ponds, and reservoirs, and several have been introduced outside their native ranges for sport fishing.

Physically, centrarchids are generally medium-sized and laterally compressed, with a dorsal fin often divided into spiny and soft-rayed sections and a relatively short, rounded body. They tend to have forward-facing mouths suited to catching small fish and invertebrates, and coloration is highly variable among species and individuals, often influenced by habitat and breeding status.

Ecology and behavior vary by species but centrarchids are typically omnivorous, feeding on insects, crustaceans, small fish, and plant matter at different life stages. They can form schools, especially juveniles, and many species exhibit territorial behavior during the breeding season.

Reproduction in centrarchids is commonly as nest builders. Males prepare shallow nests in gravel, sand, or vegetation and guard the eggs and developing fry until they are able to swim freely. Spawning typically occurs in spring or early summer, depending on species and climate.

Notable genera include Lepomis (sunfishes), Micropterus (basses), Pomoxis (crappies), Ambloplites (rock bass), and Enneacanthus (various sunfishes). Centrarchids are important for recreational fishing and have considerable cultural and economic significance in North America, though some populations face pressures from habitat loss and invasive species.