Fin's Fish Guide
The Brown darter (Etheostoma edwini) is a freshwater fish of the family Percidae that grows up to 5 cm.
Description
The brown darter is a small freshwater darter from the southeastern United States. The species grows to about 5 cm and has a slender, brown body with rows of reddish-brown spots. As a bottom-dweller without a swim bladder it rests on the bottom of clear, sandy streams and springs and moves forward in short darts. It feeds on small insect larvae and invertebrates. The fish is sensitive to turbidity. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Brown darter?
The Brown darter has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Red-brown spots; bottom-resting stream darter without a swim bladder
Where does the Brown darter live?
The Brown darter lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Southeastern United States
How big does the Brown darter get?
The Brown darter grows to a maximum of about 5 cm. On average the species is around 5 cm.
Is the Brown darter dangerous to humans?
No, the Brown 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 Brown darter edible?
The Brown 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 Brown darter?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Brown darter is one of 12,519 species in the app.