Rock Bass (Ambloplites rupestris)

There are actually three different kinds of Rock Bass, Ambloplites rupestris, Ambloplites Ariommus and Ambloplites Constellatus. A Rock Bass is often confused as a Smallmouth Bass due to its similar coloration and habitat. They are small, only about 10" in length fully grown. This freshwater fish is found in lakes throughout the United States and Canada and is also referred to as the rock perch or goggle-eye. Living to about 10 years, this fish is often found right under floating docks and seem to have no real fear of humans like most other sensible fish. Rock Bash are edible, but are not considered to be very good when compared to Bluegill or Perch. The Rock Bass is a carnivore that feeds on smaller fish and insects. They have the unique ability to change their skin tones to blend in with their surroundings, this is one of the reasons why they are so widespread through Canada and The United States. In the spring, Rock Bass moves to very shallow water to spawn. The Males build circular nests of about 8-10 inches in diameter much like the Bluegill by fanning out debris with their fins. A female will then release only a few eggs at a time, which the male fertilizes. Spawning may last as long as an hour. Females leave the nest immediately after spawning, but males remain to guard the eggs. Hatching occurs within about 3-4 days.

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