pdf version - South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks

PERCH (family Percidae)
Johnny Darter
Etheostoma nigrum
Quick key characteristics: The johnny darter is found in cool- to warmwater
habitats. Its scales are moderate in size and readily visible. It has two,
separated and elongated dorsal fi ns, one (in front) with sharp spines instead
of rays and one spine in the anal fi n. It has a small, downward-facing mouth,
overhung by a blunt, rounded snout. Its body is tubular.
Similar species in South Dakota: other darters
Identifi cation: A protrusible, downward-facing mouth, dark “w,” “j,” and “s”
-shaped markings along lateral line, and lack of bright breeding coloration
distinguish the johnny darter from similar fi shes in South Dakota.
Range: The johnny darter is native to east-central North America. In South
Dakota, it is native to river basins south and east of the Missouri River –
White River confl uence, but it appears to be either introduced or naturally
extending its range upstream among Missouri River impoundments and
western tributaries, in part due to its tolerance of turbidity and ability to
occupy a variety of habitat types.
Items of interest:
• Feeds on insects and crustaceans
• Males defend spawning territories with overhanging rocks or other
structures
• Eggs are laid and fertilized on the
underside of an overhang while
females and males are upside-down
• Can reach 3 in
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