Fin's Fish Guide
The Stripetail darter (Etheostoma kennicotti) is a freshwater fish of the family Percidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Description
The stripetail darter is a small bottom fish of the family Percidae from the eastern United States. The species reaches about 8 cm and has a brown body with dark cross-bars and a striped tail, to which the name refers. It inhabits rocky pools of headwaters, creeks and small rivers. Adults feed on midge larvae and the larvae of mayflies and stoneflies, and on small crustaceans. The eggs are attached in clusters to the underside of a stone and guarded by the male. Owing to its small size the species has no fishery value.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Stripetail darter?
The Stripetail darter has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Striped tail; the male guards the egg clusters under a stone.
Where does the Stripetail darter live?
The Stripetail darter lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Eastern United States (Tennessee, Cumberland and Ohio river basins).
How big does the Stripetail darter get?
The Stripetail darter grows to a maximum of about 8 cm. On average the species is around 5 cm.
Is the Stripetail darter dangerous to humans?
No, the Stripetail darter is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Stripetail darter edible?
The Stripetail 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
Want the complete picture on the Stripetail darter?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Stripetail darter is one of 12,519 species in the app.