Crystal Darter
Family:
Percidae (perches) in the order Perciformes (perchlike fish)
Description:
A pale, very slender darter with 4 or 5 dark crossbars that extend obliquely forward from the back onto the sides. The back and upper sides are pale yellow; the underparts are silvery-white. Midside with a series of oblong dusky blotches. Fins lack definite markings.
The upper lip is not separated from the snout by a deep groove; instead, it is joined at the midline by a narrow bridge of skin (the frenum). The body is fully scaled except for the breast and belly. Lateral line complete. Tail fin deeply forked.
Size:
Length: about 3½ to 5½ inches (adults); maximum about 6 inches.
Habitat and conservation:
Inhabits the open channels of large, clear streams having low to moderate gradients and extensive stretches of largely silt-free sand and small gravel substrate. Generally found over such substrates where there is a strong current and water depths of about 3 feet.
Foods:
A Wisconsin study found this darter eats exclusively the immature states of aquatic insects, with midges, blackflies and caddisflies predominating.
Distribution in Missouri:
Historically found in many rivers in east-central and southeastern Missouri. The only recent records are from the Gasconade River in Gasconade County, and four locations on the Black River in Butler County.
Status:
A Species of Conservation Concern, the crystal darter is Endangered in Missouri. Apparently never abundant in our state, its numbers and range have been declining. It was formerly known from the Meramec, St. Francis and Little rivers but apparently has disappeared from those drainages. Channelization, dredging and impoundments have increased siltation, destroying the clear water this species needs.
Life cycle:
The biology of this distinctive darter is poorly known. In Arkansas, it apparently breeds in late winter or early spring. At our latitude, during the first year of life, it grows to about 3 inches. This fish may bury itself in the sand to hide, and it is apparently most active at night.
Human connections:
Missourians can be proud of our state for many reasons. One bragging point we have over most of the neighboring states is the richness of our fish community, including rare types like this skinny darter. There are more than 200 kinds of fish in our state. Kansas, for example, only has about 140.
Ecosystem connections:
As a species that prefers clean, unpolluted streams, crystals darters act as indicators of a healthy ecosystem. Restoring and protecting streams for the crystal darter also will benefit many other aquatic species. MDC's Mission, Vision, Priorities
MDC protects and manages Missouri's fish, forest, and wildlife resources.
We also facilitate your participation in resource-management activities, and we provide opportunities for you to use, enjoy and learn about nature.
Shortened URL
http://mdc.mo.gov/node/17736
