Abstract:
The pygmy sunfish, Elassoma zonatum, is not as well-known as the typical sunfish most people are familiar with. It is among the smallest fishes in the world, reaching a maximum size of slightly over one inch. Three known species of the pygmy sunfish exist, with two of the species occurring in North Carolina. The habitat of this fish is the soft, acidic, coffee-colored waters of the southeastern part of the state. It has few natural enemies. The diet of the pygmy sunfish consists of small crustaceans.