Crappie

Like other members of the sunfish family white crappie are nest builders. They are similar to bluegills in that they tend to nest in relatively large “beds”, and have very high reproductive potential which often leads to overpopulation and stunting in small lakes and impoundments. White crappie nest in the spring, generally when water temperatures reach 65 °F to 70 °F. However, spawning activity has been observed at temperatures as low as 56 °F. Fry hatch in about three to five days, but remain attached to nest substrate by an adhesive substance from the egg, for a few more days. Just before leaving the nest fry free themselves by vigorous swimming actions. Once free they begin feeding on microscopic animals. Although fry do not appear to school, fingerlings do. Schools are often found with large numbers of individuals in the middle of lakes. Typically, white crappie grow three to five inches in length the first year, and reach seven to eight inches during the second year. Maturity is usually reached in two to three years. Adults feed on small fish and insects.

Again, like other members of the sunfish family black crappie are nest builders. They nest in the spring, generally when water temperatures reach 60 °F. The biology of black crappie is very similar to that of white crappie. Growth in terms of weight is very similar between the two species. White crappie tend to have higher growth rates in terms of length, but black crappie are more robust in body construction. Adults feed on fewer fish, and more insects and crustaceans than do white crappie