| Diamond darter | |
|---|---|
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Actinopterygii |
| Order: | Perciformes |
| Family: | Percidae |
| Genus: | Crystallaria |
| Species: | C. cincotta |
| Binomial name | |
| Crystallaria cincotta Welsh and Wood, 2008 |
|
The diamond darter, Crystallaria cincotta, is a species of freshwater fish of the darter family. It is named for the sparkling light it reflects during nighttime collections,[1] the diamond darter was first described in 2008 and is only the second known member of its genus, which also includes the crystal darter, C. asprella.[2]
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Diamond darters have 11-13 spines on their dorsal fins, and 11-15 soft rays. However, their anal fins do not have any spines at all, only 11-13 soft rays.[3] Adults are estimated to be 3-5 inches long,[1] with the largest specimen measuring 7.7cm, roughly 3.03 inches.[3]
Diamond darters bear a strong resemblance to crystal darters, their relatives. Both fish are translucent, and have olive-colored patterns on their bodies. Diamond darters differ in that they have a gape equal to or larger than the width of the base of their inter pelvic fins,[3] which are shaped like sickles.[4] They also have a blotch in front of the eye that is separate from the orbital rim.[3] Diamond darters have fewer dorsal spines and anal rays than the crystal darter. They also have fewer rows of scales on the cheek (2), and opercle (2).[2]
The diamond darter was described from specimens collected from the drainages of the Cumberland, Elk, Green, and Muskingum Rivers, which are all part of the Ohio River basin, from 1980 to 2005.[2] Because of river alterations, and problems with water quality, the diamond darter's range has become greatly diminished.[1] As of 2008, the fish is only known to still live in the Elk River, West Virginia.[2]