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Black Crappie
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| Black Crappie ©
Rob & Ann Simpson Courtesy of eNature |
Species
description provided by eNature
Description
To 16" (41 cm); 5 lbs (2.3 kg). Deep, strongly compressed,
dorsal profile rounded; back greenish, sides silvery green with
dark green to black scattered mottlings not forming bars, belly
silvery, median fins yellowish green with dusky, wavy lines and
white spots. Head long, concave near eye; mouth oblique, extends
past middle of eye. Dorsal fins connected without notch, 7-8 spines;
anal fin large, 6 spines. Lateral line complete, 36-44 scales.
Related
Species white crappie (P. annularis) has more elongate
body; 6 dorsal fin spines; occurs in same habitat in SE. Ontario
and E. central United States. Widely introduced.
Habitat
Quiet, warm, clear streams, ponds, lakes, and reservoirs.
Range
Quebec, Ontario, and S. Manitoba; E. and central United States except
Atlantic Coast streams from Maine to Virginia. Widely introduced.
Discussion
This is a very popular sport and food fish, especially in the southern
part of its range. It is generally less abundant than the white
crappie and less tolerant of silty and turbid waters. It feeds throughout
the day and night, but is most active in the evening.
