Rainbow Darter (Etheostoma caeruleum)

Fish in the family Percidae. Hard care. Freshwater.

Rainbow Darter

Quick facts

Scientific nameEtheostoma caeruleum
FamilyPercidae
Also known asRainbow Darter Perch
Care levelHard
Reef safetyFreshwater
TemperamentPeaceful
DietCarnivore
Adult size3 in
Minimum tank size30 gallons
Water parametersTemp 50-72°F, pH 6.5-8.0, GH 6-20 dGH

Appearance

Coldwater darter; breeding males blaze with electric-blue and orange-red bars across the flanks and fins.

Difficulty and care for the Rainbow Darter

Hard

Origin and habitat

Central & Eastern USA

Keeper notes

Peaceful bottom darter; males spar harmlessly when breeding. Predatory on small invertebrates and fry.

Log Rainbow Darter in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Rainbow Darter alongside everything else in your reef.