Fin's Fish Guide
The Variegate darter (Etheostoma variatum) is a freshwater fish of the family Percidae that grows up to 11 cm.
Description
The variegate darter is a small perch of the family Percidae from the eastern United States. The species grows to about 8 cm; courting males are handsomely coloured with green crossbars and an orange-red belly. It inhabits swift gravel and rubble riffles of small to medium rivers. Like other darters it lacks a functional swim bladder and 'hops' over the bottom. It feeds on small aquatic insects and invertebrates. The eggs are buried in the substrate. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Variegate darter?
The Variegate darter has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly green and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Colourful courting male; lacks a swim bladder and hops over fast-flowing gravel ridges.
Where does the Variegate darter live?
The Variegate darter lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Eastern US; fast-flowing gravel and stone ledges of rivers.
How big does the Variegate darter get?
The Variegate darter grows to a maximum of about 11 cm.
Is the Variegate darter dangerous to humans?
No, the Variegate darter is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Variegate darter edible?
The Variegate 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 Variegate darter?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Variegate darter is one of 12,519 species in the app.