Fin's Fish Guide
The Piedmont darter (Percina crassa) is a freshwater fish of the family Percidae that grows up to 9 cm.
Description
The Piedmont darter is a small North American perch of the family Percidae from the south-eastern United States. The species grows to about 9 cm and has a slender, yellow-brown body with a row of dark blotches along the flank. It inhabits rocky riffles and runs of small to medium rivers with clear, flowing 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 Piedmont darter?
The Piedmont darter has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Row of dark flank blotches; lacks a swim bladder and moves over the bottom in little hops.
Where does the Piedmont darter live?
The Piedmont darter lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Southeastern USA; rocky riffles of small to medium-sized rivers.
How big does the Piedmont darter get?
The Piedmont darter grows to a maximum of about 9 cm. On average the species is around 6 cm.
Is the Piedmont darter dangerous to humans?
No, the Piedmont darter is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Piedmont darter edible?
The Piedmont darter is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Percina
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 Piedmont darter is one of 12,519 species in the app.