The Pumpkinseed (Lepomis gibbosus) is a member of the North American freshwater sunfish group. Introduced into the UK, pumpkinseed have become established in the catchment areas of some Sussex rivers, and in the
Pumpkinseed
rivers themselves. Despite efforts of the Environmental Authority to contain them, pumpkinseed appear to be spreading
Pumpkinseeds are small colourful fish, inhabiting both still and running water. They have a spiny first dorsal fin and a second soft-rayed dorsal fin continuous with the first. Olive on the back, the sides are a mottled blue with dusky spots. Yellowish underneath. There is a black spot, fringed at the rear with red, on the rear edge of the operculum. Usual size is a few ounces, but pumpkinseeds can grow to over a pound weight.
Diet normally consists of small invertebrates, small fish and fish eggs. Pumpkinseeds can be easily caught on most baits, including bread. Dave Park 06:36, September 22, 2010 (UTC)