The redeye bass, initially classified as Micropterus coosae, underwent taxonomic revisions in 2013, leading to the recognition of five separate species based on their distribution within various river systems. While M. coosae is now specifically associated with the Coosa River system in Georgia and Alabama, the other four species include M. cahabae (Cahaba River system), M. chattahoochae (Chattahoochee River system), M. tallapoosae (Tallapoosa River system), and M. warriorensis (Black Warrior River system) [2].
The redeye bass possesses distinct physical features that make it easily identifiable. Its upper jaw, known as the maxilla, extends to the back of the eye, displaying a vibrant red coloration. With an elongated and slender body, the redeye bass boasts a large mouth that reaches or slightly extends beyond the rear margin of the eye. Notably, the dorsal fin consists of nine to 11 spines and 11 to 13 rays, with only a slight notch separating them. The anal fin contains three spines and nine to 11 rays. Along the lateral line, the fish has approximately 63 to 74 scales, with 12 or 13 scales above the lateral line. Additionally, a small tooth patch can be found on the tongue. The back and sides of the redeye bass exhibit olive to brown coloration with darker brown mottling. Adult redeye bass feature horizontal rows of dark spots on their lower sides and venter. Breeding males showcase a light bluish green color on the lower head and throat. Juveniles typically possess 10 to 12 dark blotches on their body sides, which do not merge to form a lateral stripe. The upper and lower margins of the caudal fin are edged in white, distinguishing it from other bass species such as the smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieu) and shoal bass (M. cataractae) [3].
Although the redeye bass is considered one of the smaller black basses, it has the potential to reach a maximum reported overall length of 47 cm (19 in). An impressive redeye bass weighing 5 lb 2.5 oz (2.34 kg) from Lake Jocassee in South Carolina holds a probable world record [4]. It's important to note that many listings for redeye bass world records over 5 lb (2.3 kg) are often mistakenly attributed to the shoal bass, which was commonly referred to as redeye bass [citation needed].
The redeye bass thrives in cool streams and rivers located in the foothills of mountains. Its natural habitat primarily encompasses the Coosa River system in Georgia and Alabama. These pristine waterways provide an ideal environment for the redeye bass to flourish. In terms of food preferences, the redeye bass predominantly feeds on insects, making it an integral part of the ecosystem [citation needed].
The introduction of redeye bass to various regions outside their native range has both positive and negative implications. In the 1960s, the species was introduced to California waters, specifically the Sisquoc River within the Santa Maria River basin [5]. While these introductions have successfully established populations, they have also led to the displacement of native species such as the hardhead (Mylopharodon conocephalus) in the Cosumnes River [6]. Furthermore, the introduced redeye bass poses a threat to California's endemic frogs and the California tiger salamander (Ambystoma californiense) [5]. In Tennessee, the redeye bass was introduced in the 1950s and has since extensively hybridized with native smallmouth bass (M. dolomieu) [5].