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Thursday, Feb 09, 2012 06:55:28 PM |
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      DARTERS AND MINNOWS 
Dan Cincotta/DNR Fisheries Biologist - "They make up 80 percent of our fauna; minnows and darters." And that equals a large and diverse population of fish with 63 species of minnows and 28 species of darters, whose name is apropos. Dan Cincotta/DNR Fisheries Biologist - "It doesn't have an air bladder. So when darters move, it moves in really quick darting motions." Minnows and darters are some of the most colorful fish in the state, especially during mating season. Dan Cincotta/DNR Fisheries Biologist - "This is a male and just as in birds, they are the most colorful. It's a species recognition deal." Don't be fooled by the size of minnows. Dan Cincotta/DNR Fisheries Biologist - "This is a minnow." Paul Bender (Starring at the large fish) - "So this is totally a misnomer for people." Dan - "Minnows aren't all small, the largest in North America is six feet long. Also, carp are minnows." Looking at this section of river you may think it is all the same, but it is really not. There are thousands of different microhabitats. I may find one type of fish right here, take a few steps and there may be a whole different species." Dan Cincotta/DNR Fisheries Biologist - A little bit faster water here, a little slower water there, each little area harbors its own species of fish." And minnows and darters smaller size doesn't lessen their importance. Dan Cincotta/DNR Fisheries Biologist - "They are the base. The energy is needed for the ecosystem to be successful." Here's an idea for kids! Take them to a stream and look for our state's smaller fish. Not only will they have fun, but it's a learning experience as well. The DNR offers a checklist of the fishes of West Virginia. If you would like a copy, just e-mail Paul Bender at pbender@wchstv.com Links to learn more West Virginia Wildlife magazine Just Another Fish Story Get a Free Fish Brochure Wonderful West Virginia magazine Fish Watching Top Fishing Choices from WVSportsmen.com West Virginia Wildlife magazine Mountain Fish Show Their Spring Colo The Status of Etheostoma osburni (candy darter) in West Virginia from the American Fisheries Society Get your Fishing license online: W.Va. Fish WCHS-TV8 Online brings you the current Fishing Conditions Report updated every week. |
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GET MORE INFORMATION ABOUT WEST VIRGINIA'S WILDLIFE      |
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