Fisheries Biologists use a small aquarium to safely view a Sickle Darter. Photo by ©University of Tennessee - Institute of Agriculture
A Sickle Darter at Conservation Fisheries Inc. Photo by ©Joel Sartore
Fact File
Scientific Name: Percina williamsi
Classification: Fish, Order Perciformes, Family Percidae
Conservation Status:
- Federally Threatened in the U.S.
- State Threatened in Virginia
- Species of Greatest Conservation Need-Tier 1c on the Virginia Wildlife Action Plan
Size: The Sickle Darter can obtain lengths up to 3.75 inches
Life Span: Sickle Darters in Virginia may live for up to 4 years
Distribution
Within Virginia, the Sickle Darter is native to the Holston and Clinch rivers of the Upper Tennessee River Basin.
Identifying Characteristics
- A long and relatively sharp, subterminal snout
- Dark and broadly conjoined lateral blotches
- Body is elongated
- Cheek and breast often lack scales
Percidae Characteristics and Anatomical Terms
Illustrations by ©Makayla DeVivo – DWR
Habitat
The Sickle Darter requires flowing water over rocky or sandy substrates. They can inhabit small to medium-sized creeks with clean and clear water. The Sickle Darter is a benthic species and prefers to reside near cover, therefor it thrives in areas with nearby boulders, large woody debris, or submerged vegetation.
Diet
Sickle Darters feed on an array of benthic macroinvertebrates such as Caddisflies, Mayflies, and Stoneflies.
Reproduction
The Sickle Darter spawns in the Spring, typically between March and May.
Special Considerations
It is illegal to target Sickle Darter by angling. The Sickle Darter is listed as a threatened species under federal and Virginia law. It is a violation of state and federal law to harass, harm, or take any Sickle Darter.
For the definitions of take, harass, and harm, see 4 VAC 15-20-140.
Last updated: August 3, 2025
The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources Species Profile Database serves as a repository of information for Virginia’s fish and wildlife species. The database is managed and curated by the Wildlife Information and Environmental Services (WIES) program. Species profile data, distribution information, and photography is generated by the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources, State and Federal agencies, Collection Permittees, and other trusted partners. This product is not suitable for legal, engineering, or surveying use. The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources does not accept responsibility for any missing data, inaccuracies, or other errors which may exist. In accordance with the terms of service for this product, you agree to this disclaimer.