Fin's Fish Guide
The Speckled darter (Etheostoma stigmaeum) is a freshwater fish of the family Percidae that grows up to 6 cm.
Description
The speckled darter is a small perch of the family Percidae from the south-eastern United States. The species grows to about 6 cm and has a slender body with a row of dark saddle blotches; breeding males turn handsomely blue and orange. It inhabits clear sandy and rocky pools of creeks and small to medium, usually clear rivers. Darters lack a well-developed swim bladder and move over the bottom in short hops. As a bottom hunter it feeds on insect larvae and small invertebrates. Owing to its small size the species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Speckled darter?
The Speckled darter has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Row of dark saddle blotches; spawning males handsomely blue and orange, lacks a swim bladder.
Where does the Speckled darter live?
The Speckled darter lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Southeastern USA; clear sandy and rocky pools of streams and rivers.
How big does the Speckled darter get?
The Speckled darter grows to a maximum of about 6 cm. On average the species is around 4 cm.
Is the Speckled darter dangerous to humans?
No, the Speckled darter is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Speckled darter edible?
The Speckled 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
Want the complete picture on the Speckled darter?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Speckled darter is one of 12,519 species in the app.