MARYLAND DARTER Etheostoma sellare (Radcliffe and Welsh, 1912) 



Order: PERCIFORMES Family: PERCIDAE 



Significance : This species is of interest to ichthyologists as only a few specimens 

 have been collected and it is known to live only in 1 or 2 small Maryland streams . 



Distinguishing characteristics : A small fish of from 1 to 2 inches in total length. 

 Reddish-brown with 4 black saddle markings and a black spot behind the eye . 

 Moderately pointed snout, separate gill membranes, no scales on the belly, breast, 

 cheek and nape . 



Present distribution : Found in Swan Creek, a small stream from 3 to 15 feet wide, 

 near Havre de Grace, Maryland and another nearby stream. 



Former distribution : Not known . 



Status : Precarious condition. Two specimens were collected in 1912, 1 was taken 

 in 1962, and a few were collected in 1964. 



Estimated numbers : Not known . 



Fecundity : Not known. 



Reasons for decline : There are no data to support a statement that they have declined. 



Protective measures already taken : Biologists have been requested not to disturb the 

 habitat . 



Measures proposed : The habitat should not be disturbed. 



Number in captivity : None. There are 2 preserved specimens in the U.S. National 

 Museum and 1 in the Cornell University fish collection. 



Culture potential in captivity : Unknown . 



Remarks : The present known habitat is near an area of commercial and residential 

 development . 



References : 



Knapp, L. S., W. J. Richards, R. V. Miller, andN. R. Foster. 1963. Rediscovery 



of the percid fish Etheostoma sellare (Radcliffe and Welsh) . Copeia, p. 455. 

 Radcliffe, L. and W. W. Welsh. 1914. Description of a new darter from Maryland. 



Bull. U.S. Bur. Fisheries, Vol. 32, p. 29-32. 



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