Fin's Fish Guide
The Blenny darter (Etheostoma blennius) is a freshwater fish of the family Percidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Description
The blenny darter is a small freshwater darter from the southeastern United States, in the Tennessee basin. The species grows to about 8 cm and has a stocky, yellowish-brown body with dark saddle blotches and a blunt, blenny-like head. As a bottom-dweller without a swim bladder it rests among stones in clear, fast-flowing streams and moves forward in short darts in search of insect larvae and small invertebrates. The fish is harmless to humans. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blenny darter?
The Blenny darter has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Blunt blenny-like head; bottom-resting stream darter
Where does the Blenny darter live?
The Blenny darter lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Southeastern United States
How big does the Blenny darter get?
The Blenny darter grows to a maximum of about 8 cm. On average the species is around 6 cm.
Is the Blenny darter dangerous to humans?
No, the Blenny darter is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Blenny darter edible?
The Blenny darter is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Etheostoma
More from the family Percidae
Want the complete picture on the Blenny darter?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blenny darter is one of 12,519 species in the app.