Fin's Fish Guide
The Fringed darter (Etheostoma crossopterum) is a freshwater fish of the family Percidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
The fringed darter is a small freshwater perch from the southeastern United States, in the Mississippi and Ohio drainages. The species grows to about 10 cm and has a stocky, mottled brown body; breeding males have dark fins with fringed, pale edges. As a bottom-dweller it stays among stones and leaf litter of clear streams and lays its eggs under flat stones, guarded by the male. The fish is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Fringed darter?
The Fringed darter has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Breeding males with fringed fin edges; eggs under flat stones
Where does the Fringed darter live?
The Fringed darter lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Southeastern USA
How big does the Fringed darter get?
The Fringed darter grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Fringed darter dangerous to humans?
No, the Fringed 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 Fringed darter edible?
The Fringed darter is not usually eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Fringed darter?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Fringed darter is one of 12,519 species in the app.
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 Fringed darter?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Fringed darter is one of 12,519 species in the app.