Fin's Fish Guide
The Riverweed darter (Etheostoma podostemone) is a freshwater fish of the family Percidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Flowing waters of the eastern United States (Roanoke and James basins).
Description
The riverweed darter is a small bottom-dwelling fish of the family Percidae (perches) occurring in flowing waters in the eastern United States. The species has an elongate, brown to greenish body with a mottling that provides camouflage, and reaches about 8 cm. Like other darters it lacks a swim bladder and rests on the bottom of rocky, fast-flowing riffles in creeks and small rivers, moving in short darts. The diet consists of small aquatic insect larvae. In the breeding season the males become more brightly coloured. The name refers to the riverweed (Podostemum) among which the fish lives.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Riverweed darter?
The Riverweed darter has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a marbled pattern. Lacks a swim bladder and rests on the bottom; males more brightly coloured during spawning; lives among river weed.
Where does the Riverweed darter live?
The Riverweed darter lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Flowing waters of the eastern United States (Roanoke and James basins).
How big does the Riverweed darter get?
The Riverweed darter grows to a maximum of about 8 cm. On average the species is around 5 cm.
Is the Riverweed darter dangerous to humans?
No, the Riverweed darter is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Riverweed darter edible?
The Riverweed 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 Riverweed darter is one of 12,519 species in the app.