Why are Crappie Called Speckled Perch in Florida and Crappie in the Rest of the United States?
In the southeastern United States, including Florida, the species of fish commonly known as crappie is referred to as speckled perch. This unique nomenclature is a holdover from the early days of European colonization in the region.
Early settlers from Europe erroneously believed that the crappie was related to the European perch (Perca fluviatilis). However, the crappie belongs to the sunfish family (Centrarchidae), which also includes bass and bluegill.
The name "speckled perch" was likely given to the crappie due to its appearance. Crappie have dark spots or speckles on their bodies, which is a characteristic shared by several species of true perch.
Over time, the name "speckled perch" became widely used in Florida, while the rest of the United States continued to refer to the fish as crappie. This distinction has persisted to this day, even though it is scientifically inaccurate.
Related Questions and Answers:
- What is the scientific name for crappie? Centrarchus macropterus and Pomoxis nigromaculatus.
- What are crappie called in Florida? Speckled perch.
- Why are they called speckled perch in Florida? Because early settlers mistakenly thought they were related to European perch.
- What family do crappie belong to? Sunfish family (Centrarchidae).
- Are crappie and perch the same fish? No, they are different species, but crappie have a similar appearance to some species of perch.
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