Fin's Fish Guide
The Gulf darter (Etheostoma swaini) is a freshwater fish of the family Percidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Southeastern North America; shallow rocky riffles and vegetated upper reaches.
Description
The Gulf darter is a small perch (Percidae) from the southeastern United States. The species has a stocky body; courting males are handsomely coloured with green-blue and reddish tints. It inhabits shallow rocky riffles and current-swept aquatic plants in headwaters, creeks and small to medium rivers. On the bottom it forages for insect larvae and small invertebrates. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Gulf darter?
The Gulf darter has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Courting male with green-blue and reddish tints; small bottom fish of rapids and vegetated upper reaches.
Where does the Gulf darter live?
The Gulf darter lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Southeastern North America; shallow rocky riffles and vegetated upper reaches.
How big does the Gulf darter get?
The Gulf darter grows to a maximum of about 8 cm. On average the species is around 5 cm.
Is the Gulf darter dangerous to humans?
No, the Gulf darter is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Gulf darter edible?
The Gulf darter is not usually eaten.
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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 Gulf darter?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Gulf darter is one of 12,519 species in the app.