Bluebreast Darter,  Etheostoma camurum

 

Physical Description: 
�	Eyes almost on top of head
�	Slightly rounded tail fin 
�	Very elongate and round body
�	Short, blunt nose and terminal mouth 
�	Lined, checkered, and somewhat barred body
�	Second dorsal, tail, and anal fins with white and black bands on edges of fins 
�	Dark-colored body with dark bands across back
�	Scattered orange spots on body

Similar species: 
�	Greenfin darter (Etheostoma chlorobranchium)

Mean body size:
�	Adults are 35-60 standard length 

Habitat:
�	Warm, clear, large, rocky streams and rivers 

Distribution in VA:
�	North Fork Holston, Clinch, and Powell rivers in Tennessee drainage

Food Habits:  
�	Insects 

Reproductive Habits: 
�	Spawning occurs late May to early August in water 21-24�C
�	Females select spawning site at top of riffles
�	Eggs laid in clusters
�	Fecundity is unknown 

Population Status, Economic, or Ecological Importance: 
�	Special concern status in Virginia
�	Does not tolerate siltation

References:       

Jenkins, R.E and N.M. Burkhead. 1993. Freshwater Fishes of Virginia. American Fisheries Society, Bethesda, Maryland.

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