Olive fish with a deep body, large mouth, and speckled scales

Rock bass

Ambloplites rupestris
Where at Shedd?
At Home on the Great Lakes
Diet Small crustaceans, insects, and fish
Size Length: Up to 17 inches (43 cm); common length 6.1 inches (15.4 cm)
Type Fishes
Range Eastern United States and Southeast Canada. Introduced to Europe
Habitat Creeks, streams, rivers and lakes

Did you know?

  1. The rock bass is also called “redeye” and “goggle eye,” for its bright red, large, bulging eyes.
  2. The rock bass is a homebody—not straying from its home territory.
  3. Tangled tree roots, overhanging banks and rocky ledges make safe hiding places for rock bass during the day.

IUCN Red List Conservation Status