Fin's Fish Guide
The Redfin darter (Etheostoma whipplei) is a freshwater fish of the family Percidae that grows up to 9 cm.
Description
The redfin darter is a colourful perch (Percidae) from North America. The species is small; spawning males have conspicuously red-spotted fins and a handsome colour pattern. It lives on the bottom of sandy and rocky pools, sometimes in riffles, of headwaters, creeks and small rivers. Because its swim bladder is strongly reduced, it moves over the bottom in jerky hops. It feeds on small aquatic insects and their larvae. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Redfin darter?
The Redfin darter has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly red-orange and shows a spots pattern. Spawning male with red-spotted fins; small bottom perch with a reduced swim bladder.
Where does the Redfin darter live?
The Redfin darter lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. North America; sandy and rocky pools of streams.
How big does the Redfin darter get?
The Redfin darter grows to a maximum of about 9 cm. On average the species is around 6 cm.
Is the Redfin darter dangerous to humans?
No, the Redfin darter is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Redfin darter edible?
The Redfin 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 Redfin darter?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Redfin darter is one of 12,519 species in the app.