finescale saddled darter
| Scientific name | Etheostoma osburni |
|---|---|
| Descriptor | Hubbs & Trautman |
| Year of description | 1932 |
| IUCN category (World) | NT |
| Family | Percidae |
| Genus | Etheostoma |
Introduction
The Etheostoma osburni, more commonly known as thefinescale saddled darter, is a small cold-water predator native to the Kanawha River basin in North America.
Who is it?
Morphology
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Average size7 cm
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Maximum size10 cm
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Average size7 cm
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Maximum size10 cm
How to recognize the finescale saddled darter ?
The finescale saddled darter measures between 7 and 10 cm.
Sexual dimorphism
Males have brighter colors than females.
Behaviour & Life cycle
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dietcarnivorous
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Sociabilitysolitary
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territorialYes
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Way of livingdiurnal
The finescale saddled darter is primarily acarnivore, feeding on small fish and benthic organisms such as insect larvae. Males are territorial, especially during the breeding season where they can be aggressive in order to court a female.
Reproduction
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Reproductionovipare qui enfouit ses œufs
The finescale saddled darter is anoviparous fish that buries its eggs. When the female is ready to spawn, she partially buries herself and the male releases his sperm. Fertilization takes place in the substrate.
Once the eggs are laid, the parents abandon their offspring.
Harmless species
This species does not represent any particular threats to humans when encountered in its natural environment.
Where to find it?
Conservation status of populations (IUCN)
Geographic distribution & Conservation
This species is only found in the Kanawha River basin in West Virginia and Virginia, United States. It appears to be relatively rare and is the focus of conservation projects. It is listed as 'Near Threatened' by the IUCN.
What is its habitat?
Natural environment characteristics
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Temperature16 - 24 °C
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FlowStrong
Biotope presentation
The species particularly prefers clear waters with strong currents and rapids. The substrate is typically composed of sand, pebbles, and rocks.
Species of the same biotope
greenside darter
Percidae
To go further
Sources & Contributions
Participation & Validation
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Translation
Translation done with the valuable contribution of our translators, who make this information available to a wider audience. We sincerely thank them for their commitment.
Scientific partners
Species of the same family
Same genus
greenside darter
Percidae
Species of the same biotope
greenside darter
Percidae