Fin's Fish Guide
The Slough darter (Etheostoma gracile) is a freshwater fish of the family Percidae that grows up to 6 cm.
Description
The slough darter is a small freshwater darter from the central and southern United States. The species grows to about 6 cm and has a slender body with dark spots and bars; breeding males develop red and green-blue accents. As a bottom-dweller it lives in slow, weedy water of marshes, ditches and pools and searches for small insect larvae and invertebrates. The fish is harmless to humans. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Slough darter?
The Slough darter has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Spawning male with red and green-blue accents; swamp darter
Where does the Slough darter live?
The Slough darter lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. United States
How big does the Slough darter get?
The Slough darter grows to a maximum of about 6 cm. On average the species is around 4 cm.
Is the Slough darter dangerous to humans?
No, the Slough darter is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Slough darter edible?
The Slough darter is not usually eaten.
More photos
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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 Slough darter is one of 12,519 species in the app.