Fin's Fish Guide
The Crystal Darter (Crystallaria asprella) is a freshwater fish of the family Percidae that grows up to 16 cm.
Description
The crystal darter is a slender perch (Percidae) from North America. The species has an elongate, translucent body with a few dark saddle blotches, adapted to life in flowing water. It inhabits clean sand and gravel runs of small to medium rivers, where it half-buries itself. As a bottom hunter it snaps small aquatic insects and their larvae. Through water pollution and siltation it has declined and is vulnerable. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Crystal Darter?
The Crystal Darter has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Elongate, translucent body with saddle blotches; half-buries itself in clean sandy patches, vulnerable.
Where does the Crystal Darter live?
The Crystal Darter lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. North America; clean sand and gravel runs of rivers.
How big does the Crystal Darter get?
The Crystal Darter grows to a maximum of about 16 cm. On average the species is around 9 cm.
Is the Crystal Darter dangerous to humans?
No, the Crystal Darter is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Crystal Darter edible?
The Crystal Darter is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Percidae
Want the complete picture on the Crystal Darter?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Crystal Darter is one of 12,519 species in the app.