Long-nosed Darter (Percina nasuta)
(State-listed as Endangered)
Description:
A small, slender fish approximately two to 2.5 inches in length
with a slightly elongate head and snout. The body is a dull
yellowish color with 10-14 dark vertical blotches along each
side. It feeds on small aquatic invertebrates.
Habitat: The Long-nosed Darter occurs in clear, rocky perennial
streams. During its spring spawning season, it is found in
gravel riffles. During other times of the year, it is found in
deeper, quieter pools within the stream.
Current and Historic Distribution: Currently, the Long-nosed
Darter is found within Oklahoma only in Lee Creek and Little Lee
Creek in eastern Adair and Sequoyah counties. Outside of
Oklahoma, it occurs in portions of western Arkansas.
Historically, this species once occurred in the Poteau River and
its major tributaries in LeFlore County.
Reasons for Decline: This species has been negatively affected
by reservoir construction that submerges its preferred habitat
and isolates populations above and below dams. To a lesser
extent it has been affected by increased amounts of silt and
sediment in streams and possibly by past pesticide use.
County by County List of Endangered and Threatened Species
US Fish and Wildlife Endangered Species Lists