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The Fantail Darter

Fantail Darter is a small rocky-stream fish with a distinctive reproductive habit: eggs are attached beneath stones and guarded by males. It is widespread across several eastern and central North American drainage systems.

Distribution

The broad species range includes Atlantic, Great Lakes and Mississippi-basin waters. Historical regional forms have received different names, including humerale in Atlantic drainages. Retain locality information when comparing old records with the modern species treatment.

Riffle Feeding

Adults occupy rocky riffles and take midge, blackfly and caddisfly larvae, mayfly nymphs, isopods and amphipods. Much of this prey lives close to the substrate. A fish resting among rocks can therefore be near both food and shelter.

Egg Care and Size

Females deposit clusters of eggs on the underside of stones, and males guard them. The maximum total length is 8.4 centimeters, with a common reference near 5.2 centimeters. Undisturbed submerged stones can be reproductive habitat as well as cover.

Leave Nest Stones in Place

The underside of a stream stone may hold guarded eggs. Observe around it without turning potential nest cover unnecessarily.

All Lakes With Fantail Darter

Browse lakes and reservoirs with documented Fantail Darter records, listed alphabetically. Records do not establish current abundance or public access. Check the evidence and managing authority for the water you choose.

Showing 1–2 of 2 lakes · Page 1 of 1

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