Fin's Fish Guide
The Kanawha Darter (Etheostoma kanawhae) is a freshwater fish of the family Percidae that grows up to 9 cm.
Description
The Kanawha darter is a small, colourful North American perch of the family Percidae from the eastern United States. The species grows to about 9 cm; breeding males are handsomely marked in green and orange. It inhabits fast gravel and rubble riffles of small to medium rivers with clear water. As a small bottom dweller it searches among pebbles for insect larvae and other small invertebrates. Darters lack a swim bladder and move over the bottom in short hops. Owing to its small size the species has no fishery value and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Kanawha Darter?
The Kanawha Darter has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly green and shows a spots pattern. Spawning males green and orange; lacks a swim bladder and moves over the bottom in small hops.
Where does the Kanawha Darter live?
The Kanawha Darter lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Eastern US; fast gravel riffles of rivers with clear water.
How big does the Kanawha Darter get?
The Kanawha Darter grows to a maximum of about 9 cm. On average the species is around 7 cm.
Is the Kanawha Darter dangerous to humans?
No, the Kanawha Darter is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Kanawha Darter edible?
The Kanawha 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
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Kanawha Darter is one of 12,519 species in the app.