Blueface Darter
NameBlueface Darter
Scientific NameEtheostoma caeruleum
Common NamesBlueface Darter, Rainbow Darter
FamilyPercidae
OriginNorth America, Great Lakes Basin, Mississippi River Basin, Ohio River Basin
Temperamentpeaceful
Dietcarnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)20
Max Size (Inches)3
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)60-72
pH Range7.0-8.0
Compatible SpeciesOther small darters, Dace, Shiners, Small temperate minnows
Description
The Blueface Darter, also widely known as the Rainbow Darter, is a small, vibrantly colored freshwater fish native to clear, cool streams of North America. Males exhibit striking blue, orange, and red patterns, particularly during spawning. These active bottom-dwellers require excellent water quality and a varied diet of small invertebrates.
