Diamond Darter | Crystallaria cincotta

Status: IUCN: Critically Endangered; USFWS: Endangered (2013)

Threats: Climate change, impoundments, mining, pollution, and sedimentation.

CFI Status: Propagated at CFI from 2009-2017 for propagation protocols; 2021-present* for propagation protocols. (What do these terms mean?)

Native Range: Ohio River drainage from OH and WV to Cumberland River system, TN and KY (absent in Wabash River system).

Spawning Habitat Preferences: Early spring spawners in medium-sized rivers with high flow or swift-flowing streams and riffles; lay eggs over sandy to gravel substrates.

Fun Fact: Diamond Darters are among the rarest fishes in the world. Their historically broad range spanning five states has since been restricted to just one river, with annual surveys yielding sitings in the single digits. We continue to hope that enough individuals can be found to allow us to create a captive spawning group and begin restoring this species to its historic habitats with the goal of pulling them back from the brink of extinction.

In Partnership With: USFWS (Ohio); USFWS (West Virginia)

Relevant Literature: Ruble et. al (2013)