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White Crappie

Fact File

Scientific Name: Pomoxis annularis

Classification: Fish, Order Perciformes, Family Centrarchidae

Size: White Crappie can grow larger than 16 inches in length

Life Span: White Crappie can live for up to 9 years in Virginia waters

Identifying Characteristics

  • Laterally compressed body shape
  • Snout is slightly upturned
  • Large mouth and eye relative to body size
  • Dark vertical bars across the body
  • Second dorsal and anal fin symmetrical in orientation and size

Diet

White Crappie feed heavily upon insects and other species of fish.

Distribution

White Crappie are native to the Upper Tennessee River drainage in southwest Virginia, but have been introduced elsewhere throughout the state.

Habitat

White Crappie orient to submerged structure, particularly during their spawning process.

Last updated: January 15, 2025

The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources Species Profile Database serves as a repository of information for Virginia’s fish and wildlife species. The database is managed and curated by the Wildlife Information and Environmental Services (WIES) program. Species profile data, distribution information, and photography is generated by the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources, State and Federal agencies, Collection Permittees, and other trusted partners. This product is not suitable for legal, engineering, or surveying use. The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources does not accept responsibility for any missing data, inaccuracies, or other errors which may exist. In accordance with the terms of service for this product, you agree to this disclaimer.