Fin's Fish Guide
The Snubnose darter (Etheostoma simoterum) is a freshwater fish of the family Percidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Fresh water of south-eastern North America (the Tennessee basin), in clear streams and small rivers with gravel.
Description
The snubnose darter is a small bottom perch of the family Percidae reaching about 8 cm. The species has a blunt, short snout and a brown body with dark saddles and rows of spots; males colour spectacularly in the breeding season with red spots and blue-green tints. Like other darters it lacks a well-developed swim bladder and 'hops' in short bursts over the bottom of clear streams and small rivers with gravel in southeastern North America, in the Tennessee drainage. On the bottom it hunts insect larvae, small crustaceans and worms. In spring it spawns over gravel. Darters are sensitive to water quality and serve as indicators of a healthy stream.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Snubnose darter?
The Snubnose darter has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Small bottom-dwelling perch with a blunt snout and dark saddles; in the spawning season the male colours up with red spots and blue-green tints.
Where does the Snubnose darter live?
The Snubnose darter lives in fresh water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Fresh water of south-eastern North America (the Tennessee basin), in clear streams and small rivers with gravel.
How big does the Snubnose darter get?
The Snubnose darter grows to a maximum of about 8 cm. On average the species is around 5 cm.
Is the Snubnose darter dangerous to humans?
No, the Snubnose darter is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Snubnose darter edible?
The Snubnose darter is not usually eaten.
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All data
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Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
Same genus Etheostoma
More from the family Percidae
Want the complete picture on the Snubnose darter?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Snubnose darter is one of 12,519 species in the app.