Fin's Fish Guide
The Christmas darter (Etheostoma hopkinsi) is a freshwater fish of the family Percidae that grows up to 7 cm.
Description
The Christmas darter is a small perch (Percidae) from clear streams and rivers of the southeastern United States. The species grows to about 7 cm and has a slender body with alternating red and green vertical bars, to which it owes its name. As a bottom-dweller it darts in short hops over gravel and sand bottoms of flowing water and snaps at insect larvae and small crustaceans. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Christmas darter?
The Christmas darter has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly green and shows a vertical stripes pattern.
Where does the Christmas darter live?
The Christmas darter lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. North America: USA
How big does the Christmas darter get?
The Christmas darter grows to a maximum of about 7 cm. On average the species is around 5 cm.
Is the Christmas darter dangerous to humans?
No, the Christmas 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.
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 Christmas darter?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Christmas darter is one of 12,519 species in the app.