Black Crappie
Pomoxis
nigromaculatus
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.
