Riverdarters

Riverdarters are a fictional group of small freshwater fish introduced in this article for illustrative purposes. They are depicted as slender, laterally compressed fish typically 4 to 8 centimeters long, with a single dorsal fin and a rounded tail. Their movement is characterized by quick, darting bursts, which gives them their name.

Taxonomy in this article places Riverdarters within the darter lineage of the family Percidae, and within the subfamily Etheostomatinae. They are described as comprising several closely related species grouped under the informal common name Riverdarters. The taxonomy reflects typical darter anatomy and a preference for freshwater habitats.

Distribution and habitat: Riverdarters inhabit cool to temperate rivers and streams with clear water, moderate to strong currents, and gravel or rocky substrates. They favor riffles and fast runs, and are less common in stagnant pools. In the fictional geography, their range covers several mid-latitude river basins.

Ecology and behavior: Riverdarters feed mainly on small aquatic invertebrates, such as insect larvae and crustaceans. They defend small territories during the breeding season. Spawning occurs in spring, with males displaying brighter fin colors and building or defending gravel nests. Eggs are laid among gravel and guarded briefly by the males before hatch.

Conservation: In the fictional setting, Riverdarters are sensitive to pollution, sedimentation, and flow modification. They are considered indicators of clean water quality, and their populations decline where river habitats are degraded. No real-world conservation status applies to this taxon because it is a construct for illustrative purposes.