Snail Darter

Percina tanasi

The tiny Snail Darter is one of the most famous fishes in North America. It became the focus of attention in 1977 when its status as an endangered species delayed construction of Tellico Dam in the Tennessee Valley. The dam project was eventually allowed to go ahead, and the darter's habitat there was completely destroyed. However, new populations of the fish were discovered and others were established in new habitats. In 1984, the species was downlisted from an endangered species to a threatened species.

Look For : A brown darter with 4 dark brown, saddle-shaped marks and dark stripe along sides.

Length : 3 1/2".

Habitat : Gravel and sand shallows.

Range : Lower Tennessee River.