Bluemask Darter | Etheostoma akatulo

Status: IUCN: Endangered; USFWS: Endangered

CFI Status: Propagated at CFI from 2013-present for propagation protocols, reintroduction, and monitoring. (What do these terms mean?)

Native Range: Upper Caney Fork System (Cumberland River drainage), TN

Spawning Habitat Preferences:  Early-mid spring spawners in medium-large streams with moderate flow; spawn over sandy and fine gravel substrates

Fun Fact: The Bluemask Darter, in addition to its vivid coloration, is also uniquely adapted to the soft, sandy, spring-boil habitats it calls home. When threatened, they can quickly shimmy down into the substrate, disappearing from the sight of potential predators.

In Partnership With: Tennessee Technological University; Tennessee Valley Authority; Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency ; USFWS (Cookeville, TN)