Rock bass

Ambloplites rupestris

Rock bass generally inhabit rocky habitats of lakes and streams. This species has been intentionally or accidentally introduced into lakes and rivers outside of their native range. In central Ontario, the introduction of rock bass and smallmouth bass into lakes previously lacking bass has resulted in a massive decline in the density of minnows, their preferred prey. These lakes often contain populations of lake trout, a species that also relies on minnows, particularly while the water temperature is cold and lake trout can inhabit inshore waters. Recent research has found that growth rates, size, and reproductive output of lake trout has dropped in lakes invaded by bass.