Suwannee Bass
Micropterus notius
A
heavy-bodied bass seldom exceeding 12 inches long. The most unique
characteristic of a mature Suwannee bass is its bright turquoise, blue
coloring on the cheeks, breast, and ventral parts. The upper jaw does
not extend beyond the eye. Also, there is a shallow notch between the
dorsal fins with a distinct connection between the spiny and soft-rayed
dorsal fins. A pattern of dark vertical blotches occurs along the
lateral line. There is generally a distinct dark blotch where the
lateral line meets the caudal fin. Scales are present on bases of
dorsal, anal and caudal fins.
Originally
restricted to the Suwannee and Ochlockonee River systems of Florida and
Georgia. Also occupies spring-fed lower reaches of the Santa Fe and
Ichetucknee rivers, tributaries of the Suwannee River and the St. Marks
and Aucilla/Wacissa systems where it was introduced.
(Source: http://myfwc.com/WILDLIFEHABITATS/Freshwaterfish_SuwanneeBass.htm)
