Glassy Darter,  Etheostoma vitreum

 

Physical Description: 
�	Very large, long pectoral fins
�	High dorsal fins
�	Eyes almost on top of head
�	Slightly indented tail fin 
�	Very elongate and round body
�	Somewhat long nose and terminal mouth with thick lips
�	Translucent body with dark flecks on sides 
�	Dorsal and tail fins clear with faint black speckles
�	Looks like Western sand darter

Similar species: 
�	Longfin darter (Etheostoma longimanum)

Mean body size:
�	Adults are 35-55 standard length 

Habitat:
�	Warm streams and rivers in most habitats where there is sand

Distribution in VA:
�	Found in all Atlantic slope drainages except in Virginia portion of Potomac drainage

Food Habits:
�	Insects

Reproductive Habits: 
�	Mature by age 1 or 2
�	Spawning occurs late February to early April in water 10-19�C
�	Spawn on objects in currents near sand
�	Eggs adhesive and laid singly on top of or under objects
�	Fecundity is about 68-223 eggs per female 

Population Status, Economic, or Ecological Importance: 
�	Well adapted to living in sand
�	Common in Virginia, threatened status in Maryland

References:       

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

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