Rainbow Darter — printable fact sheet

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Rainbow Darter

Etheostoma caeruleum

The Rainbow Darter is a small, vibrantly colored freshwater fish native to streams and rivers of eastern North America. Males display striking blue and orange markings, especially during breeding season, making them one of the most colorful darters. They prefer clear, fast-flowi…

Classification

Fish

Family

Percidae

Habitat

Freshwater streams and rivers

Diet

Carnivore

Conservation status

Least Concern

Lifespan

3-4 years

Weight

2-5 grams

Scientific name

Etheostoma caeruleum

Did you know?

Despite their vivid colors, Rainbow Darters are rarely kept in home aquariums because they require fast-flowing, highly oxygenated water to thrive.
Rainbow Darters lack a swim bladder, which allows them to stay close to the streambed without floating away. During breeding season, males become even more colorful to attract females. They are named for their ability to 'dart' quickly among rocks and debris in the water.

What I learned

Draw the rainbow darter

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