The Ozark bass (Ambloplites constellatus) is a species of freshwater fish in the sunfish family (Centrarchidae) of order Centrarchiformes. It is native only to the White River, Sac River, James River, and Pomme de Terre River drainages of Missouri and Arkansas. The species is commonly referred to as "goggle-eye".
Description
thumb|left|At [[Buffalo National River, Arkansas]]
The Ozark bass is a comparatively slender species of rock bass with a large eye which has a red iris. The brownish-green body has an irregular pattern of black speckling. This species attains a maximum total length of , but they are normally around and the maximum published weight is .
Distribution
The Ozark bass is native to the Ozarks upland reaches of the White River system in Missouri and Arkansas. They have been introduced elsewhere but have failed to establish populations in those areas. The male excavates a nest in sand or gravel which is in diameter at depths of . The females lay eggs in the nest, and the male guards the nest until the fry depart.
Relationship with humans
They are a popular game fish in small streams and rivers. The IGFA world record for the species is a two-way tie with fish weighing caught from Bull Shoals Lake in Arkansas and the James River in Missouri.
References
- Arkansas Game and Fish Commission
- https://nature.mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/field-guide/northern-rock-bass-goggle-eye