How to Identify Texas Mud Darter

To identify Texas Mud Darter (Etheostoma pottsi), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

elongated

Coloration

Generally cryptic, with a mottled brown to olive-green dorsal coloration, fading to a lighter ventral surface. Irregular dark blotches or saddles may be present along the back and sides, aiding in camouflage against the substrate. Fins are typically translucent with some dusky markings. Breeding males may exhibit slightly intensified colors, but not as vibrant as many other darter species.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Small size, typically not exceeding 60 mm standard length (SL)., Blunt snout and relatively large eyes., Two dorsal fins, the first spiny and the second soft-rayed., Lateral line usually complete or nearly complete., Absence of a preopercular spine.

Dorsal fin

Two dorsal fins; the first with 8-10 spines, the second with 10-13 soft rays. The two fins are typically separate or barely connected.

Tail fin

Caudal fin is slightly emarginate to truncate.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins are relatively large and fan-shaped, used for perching and maneuvering on the substrate.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are thoracic in position, located beneath the pectoral fins.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Size and Body Shape

   Small, slender body, rarely exceeding 6 cm (2.4 inches) in total length. The body is somewhat compressed laterally.

2. 2

   Coloration and Pattern

   Mottled brown to olive-green with irregular dark blotches or saddles on the back and sides. This cryptic pattern helps it blend into muddy or silty bottoms.

3. 3

   Fins

   Two distinct dorsal fins. The first dorsal fin has spines, and the second has soft rays. The caudal fin is slightly rounded or truncate. Pectoral fins are large and fan-like.

4. 4

   Substrate Preference

   Its strong association with soft, muddy, or silty substrates is a key indicator. If found in such habitats within the Brazos River drainage, it is likely E. pottsi.

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