Pumpkinseed sunfish
The Pumpkinseed Sunfish is found in small lakes, ponds and streams around eastern North America. Female Sunfish are paler than males but have more prominent markings on their body. Breeding male Pumpkinseed Sunfish display the most intense coloring while young Sunfish have significantly less coloring and pattern. All Pumpkinseed Sunfish have spines in their dorsal and anal fins that spread out when they sense danger, making them harder to swallow for predators.
