SCIENTIFIC NAME: Percina tanasi CHARACTERISTICS: Percina tanasi
is characterized by eyes placed toward the top of the head, four
distinct dorsal saddles, a blunt snout, and short, rounded
pectoral and pelvic fins. The back is speckled brown with four
dark saddles under the spiny dorsal fin. Nine to 12 round or
oval dark blotches form a variously developed lateral band. The
venter is white or light green. The spiny dorsal fin has a gray
margin and basal band; remaining fins lack distinct banding.
Breeding males have an enlarged and tuberculate anal fin. ADULT
SIZE: 2.2 to 3.1 in (55 to 80 mm) DISTRIBUTION: Snail darters
were originally thought to occur only in the lower Little
Tennessee River and adjacent Tennessee River. Introduction and
subsequent sampling expanded their range into Chickamauga Creek,
a downstream segment of the Tennessee River, and the Sequatchie,
Hiwassee, Holston, andElk river systems. The only confirmed
location in Alabama is from the lower Paint Rock River in
Jackson County. HABITAT AND