Wild Guide: Greenside Darter

Greenside Darter

Etheostoma blennioides

Status

Common

Size

Length: 2 ½ to more than 5 ½ inches

Distribution

Ozarks

Greenside darters are Missouri’s second largest darter in size, next to the logperch. They are olive to yellow, with scattered red spots and vertical blotches often arranged in a V or W pattern. Breeding males have bright blue-green on the head and lower fins and green vertical bars. They occur in streams and rivers with swift to moderate current and rocky or gravel riffles. Though most abundant in the Ozarks, they can occur a few places beyond, including Auxvasse Creek, Loutre River (Callaway and Montgomery counties), and the Little Osage and Marmaton rivers (Vernon County).

Foods

Greenside darters eat larvae of aquatic insects, including midges, caddisflies, and mayflies. They also eat small crustaceans and snails.

Life Cycle

The greenside darter spawns earlier than most Missouri darters, beginning by late March and completing by the end of April. Reproduction is timed to match the bloom of the algae on which this species attaches its eggs. Males occupy and defend territories. Greenside darters can live for five 

years and are most active in daytime.

Human Connections

Spring and early summer are ideal times to observe fish such as greenside darters. During spawning season, the males possess striking colors, and it is easier to watch them because they tend to be in shallow water. Fish are easily frightened, so approach cautiously. Consider using binoculars and wearing polarized sunglasses to diminish scattered sun reflections from the water’s surface.