It's been a tough winter for redears. They're actually native to parts south, and even there they are dying, as there will be a shortage this year from suppliers in Arkansas.
That said, there is some conjecture on the site among some of us that considering many of the redears that are sold for pond stocking originate in Arkansas, they may not be as adaptable to our winters, especially like the severe one we just had. Add to that ponds being small bodies of water are subject to fast water temp drops in fall and early winter, which may be stressful to a fish that is living in marginal conditions already. And adding a diffuser to prevent winterkill may drop water temps under the ice, which could be another stressor.
The redears that are living in northern waters for several generations since being naturalized may have adapted through natural selection. OTOH they may be better able to survive in deeper lakes that have more stable water temps.
Last edited by Cecil Baird1; 04/15/14 12:44 PM.
