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Physical Description: � Large pectoral fins � Slightly indented tail fin � Somewhat elongate body � Short, blunt nose � Terminal mouth � First dorsal fin edge white � Second dorsal fin streaked with black � Pale olive-colored body � Dark, U-shaped marks along side of body Similar species: � Variegate darter (Etheostoma variatum) Mean body size: � Adults are 60-90 standard length Habitat: � Clear, rocky streams and rivers in riffles and runs, usually around vegetation Distribution in VA: � Big Sandy, Tennessee, New, and Potomac drainages � Probably introduced into the Potomac drainage Food Habits: � Insects and some snails Reproductive Habits: � Mature by age 1 or 2 � Spawning occurs late March to early May � May spawn over sand near boulders � Eggs attach to vegetation and rocks � Fecundity is 404-1,832 eggs spawned per female Population Status, Economic, or Ecological Importance: � Largest member of the genus Etheostoma � Intolerant of siltation References: Jenkins, R.E and N.M. Burkhead. 1993. Freshwater Fishes of Virginia. American Fisheries Society, Bethesda, Maryland.If you are seeking more information for the above species click on the VAFWIS logo (The Virginia Fish and Wildlife Information Service):
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