Percina maculata (Girard, 1859)

Scientific Naming

The blackside darter, scientifically named Percina maculata (Girard, 1859), has distinct physical traits that set it apart.

Base Body Coloration

Its body is primarily dark, with base coloration in shades of dark brown, olive, and black, with occasional white patches.

Distinctive Spot Markings

A key identifying feature is a side stripe formed by 6 to 9 separate black spots; additional black spots appear below the eyes and on the caudal fin.

Adult Body Length

On average, adult blackside darters measure 2 to 3 inches in length, though they can grow as large as 4 inches.

Dorsal Fin Structure

This species has two dorsal fins: the first holds spinous rays, while the second holds soft rays.

Additional Morphological Features

It also has a rounded caudal fin, and a terminal mouth that opens at the anterior end of the snout.

General Habitat Type

Blackside darters inhabit clean, mostly pollution-free small to medium-sized rivers and streams.

Microhabitat Preferences

They prefer areas with slow current and cover for hiding such as roots and natural debris.

Overall Distribution Range

The species is widespread across the United States.

Major Drainage Range

Its known range includes the Hudson Bay, Mississippi River basin, and Gulf drainages stretching from Mobile Bay in Alabama to the Calcasieu River in Louisiana.

Additional Regional Occurrences

It also occurs in the Minnesota River basin, Whetstone Creek, Big Sioux basin, Pipestone, and many areas surrounding the Great Lakes.

Virginia Population Status

While the species was present in the Big Sandy drainage in the early 1900s, no recent populations have been recorded in any Virginia drainages.

Spawning Season Timing

Blackside darters spawn in spring, with spawning season beginning around April and lasting through late June or early July.

Spawning Behavior

To breed, adults first move upstream, then spawn over sand and gravel near slow riffles, before burying their eggs.

Parental Care Behavior

Adult blackside darters provide no parental care for eggs or newly hatched young.

Maturity and Lifespan

Juveniles reach maturity at 1 to 2 years of age, and the species can live up to five years.