Fin's Fish Guide
The Spotted Darter (Etheostoma maculatum) is a freshwater fish of the family Percidae that grows up to 9 cm.
Description
The spotted darter is a small perch (Percidae) from eastern North America. The species has a slender body; courting males are dark with red spots. It lives in fast, rocky riffles of small to medium rivers. On the bottom it forages among the gravel for insect larvae and small invertebrates. The eggs are laid in clusters on the underside of stones and guarded by the male. Owing to a limited and fragmented range the species is considered vulnerable. It is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Spotted Darter?
The Spotted Darter has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. The male guards egg clusters under stones in rapids; vulnerable because of its fragmented range.
Where does the Spotted Darter live?
The Spotted Darter lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Eastern North America; fast, rocky riffles.
How big does the Spotted Darter get?
The Spotted Darter grows to a maximum of about 9 cm. On average the species is around 6 cm.
Is the Spotted Darter dangerous to humans?
No, the Spotted Darter is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Spotted Darter edible?
The Spotted 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 Spotted Darter?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Spotted Darter is one of 12,519 species in the app.