In order to determine the distribution and habitat requirements of the redbreast sunfish Lepomis auritus (Linnaeus) in the streams and reservoirs of North Carolina, a more detailed analysis of the data were extrapolated from previous watershed and reservoir survey reports made by personnel of the Wildlife Resources Commission from 1956 to 1966. It was concluded from the study that: (1) Redbreast sunfish inhabit 23 of the 26 major watersheds within the State; (2) Redbreast sunfish inhabit (a) waters reaching elevations up to 3,500 feet, (b) waters having up to eight percent sea-water equivalency, and (c) a pH range between 4.8 and 8.4; and (3) The game-fish species most frequently associated with the redbreast sunfish in the Mountain, Piedmont, and Northeastern watersheds was the bluegill, whereas warmouth, redfin pickerel and/or largemouth bass were most frequently associated in the Southeastern Coastal watersheds.
