Candy Darter
NameCandy Darter
Scientific NameEtheostoma osburni
Common NamesCandy Darter
FamilyPercidae
OriginNorth America, Kanawha River System, West Virginia, Virginia
Temperamentpeaceful
Dietcarnivore
Care Leveladvanced
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)20
Max Size (Inches)3
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)55-70
pH Range6.5-7.5
Compatible SpeciesOther small darter species, Sculpins, Certain minnows, Shiners
Description
The Candy Darter is a small, vibrantly colored freshwater fish native to the cool, clear streams of the Appalachian region. Males display striking red-orange and blue-green vertical bars, particularly during breeding season. They are bottom-dwelling insectivores that require highly oxygenated water with strong currents and a substrate of gravel and rocks.
