A Synopsis of Darter (Percidae: Etheostomatinae) Diversity and the Evolution of Male Nuptial Coloration in the Genus Etheostoma

Darters are a diverse group of small fishes in the percid family. With over 200 species found throughout North America, darters exhibit a unique array of phenotypic traits in the forms of trophic adaptations and elaborate male secondary sexual traits, particularly vivid nuptial coloration patterns. Due to their diversity and frequently high local abundances, darters are key components of lotic community structure and function.  I will provide an overview of this diverse group of fishes focusing on morphological, ecological, and behavioral characteristics. This overview will be presented in the context of a recently completed AFLP phylogeny, with a discussion of generic and subgeneric relationships among darters. Results of behavioral experiments and phylogenetic comparative analyses provide valuable insight into the roles of sexual and ecological selection in the evolution of male nuptial coloration, a key component of darter speciation and diversity.