Fin's Fish Guide
The Banded darter (Etheostoma zonale) is a freshwater fish of the family Percidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Fresh water of eastern and central North America, in clear, flowing rivers with stony bottoms (riffles).
Description
The banded darter is a small, slender perch of the family Percidae (the darters) reaching about 8 cm. Because darters have lost their swim bladder they do not hover but 'dart' over the bottom in short hops, resting on their pectoral fins. The body bears a row of green cross-bars; breeding males turn vivid emerald green. The species is native to the fresh water of eastern and central North America and lives in clear, flowing rivers with stony bottoms (riffles). Among the stones it searches for insect larvae, especially mayfly larvae, and small crustaceans. In spring the female sticks the eggs to water plants and stones. It is a sensitive indicator of clean, flowing water.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Banded darter?
The Banded darter has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly green and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Small perch without a swim bladder that 'darts' over the bottom; the breeding male turns bright green with a row of green vertical bars.
Where does the Banded darter live?
The Banded darter lives in fresh water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Fresh water of eastern and central North America, in clear, flowing rivers with stony bottoms (riffles).
How big does the Banded darter get?
The Banded darter grows to a maximum of about 8 cm. On average the species is around 5 cm.
Is the Banded darter dangerous to humans?
No, the Banded darter is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Banded darter edible?
The Banded darter is not usually eaten.
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Status & sources
Same genus Etheostoma
More from the family Percidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Banded darter is one of 12,519 species in the app.