Ecological Risk Screening Summary - Orangespotted Sunfish (Lepomis humilis) - Uncertain Risk

Species that are considered uncertain risk need a more in-depth assessment beyond the Risk Summary to better define the species’ risk to U.S. environments.

Lepomis humilis, Orangespotted Sunfish, is a freshwater fish that is native to the Midwest and southern regions of the contiguous United States. L. humilis is one of the smallest species of sunfish, found in small turbid streams. They have a higher tolerance for turbidity and pollution compared to other sunfish species. They are not often targeted by anglers but may be of interest to aquarium hobbyists. L. humilis has been introduced to locations in North America, particularly to watersheds adjacent to its native range. Some introductions have resulted in established nonnative populations. The History of Invasiveness for L. humilis is classified as Data Deficient due to a lack of information regarding impacts of introduction. The climate matching analysis for the contiguous United States indicates establishment concern for this species outside its native range. Areas of high match were found from the Atlantic Coast to the Rocky Mountains, which includes the native range of the species. The Certainty of Assessment is classified as Low due to the lack of information regarding impacts of introduction and trade. The Overall Risk Assessment Category for Lepomis humilis in the contiguous United States is Uncertain.