Fin's Fish Guide
The Johnny darter (Etheostoma nigrum) is a freshwater fish of the family Percidae that grows up to 7 cm.
Fresh water of eastern and central North America, over sandy and gravelly bottoms of streams, rivers and lake shores.
Description
The johnny darter is a small, slender perch of the family Percidae (the darters) reaching about 7 cm. Because darters have lost their swim bladder they do not hover but 'dart' over the bottom in short hops, resting on their pectoral fins. The pale-brown body bears small, X- and W-shaped dark markings, good camouflage on sand and gravel. The species is native to the fresh water of eastern and central North America and lives over sandy and gravelly bottoms of streams, rivers and lake shores. On the bottom it searches for insect larvae, especially midge larvae, and small crustaceans. In spring the male turns the eggs against the underside of a stone and guards them.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Johnny darter?
The Johnny darter has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Small, pale brown perch without a swim bladder that 'darts' over the bottom in little jumps; the flank carries small, X- and W-shaped markings.
Where does the Johnny darter live?
The Johnny darter lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Fresh water of eastern and central North America, over sandy and gravelly bottoms of streams, rivers and lake shores.
How big does the Johnny darter get?
The Johnny darter grows to a maximum of about 7 cm. On average the species is around 4 cm.
Is the Johnny darter dangerous to humans?
No, the Johnny darter is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Johnny darter edible?
The Johnny darter is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
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Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
Same genus Etheostoma
More from the family Percidae
Want the complete picture on the Johnny darter?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Johnny darter is one of 12,519 species in the app.