Redear sunfish have more success breeding than many fish because:
(a.) Their eggs are coated with a sticky substance poisonous to most predators.
(b.) Their populations stick to a few optimal areas, and easily find each other for mating.
(c.) The males guard the eggs for the first few days after the female lays them.
(d.) The females incubate the eggs and give birth to live offspring.
(e.) The males are so cute when they get all shy and their ears turn red.
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(c.) The males guard the eggs for the first few days after the female lays them.
SOURCE: “Redear Sunfish – Lepomis microlophus” (BLM California wildlife database)
The males will defend their nests for a few days after eggs are laid, which is why breeding success tends to be higher in this fish family.
http://www.blm.gov/ca/forms/wildlife/details.php?metode=serial_number&search=2877
*W
