The Relict Darter ,

The distribution, microhabitat affinity and availability, and conservative estimates of numbers of Etheostorna chienense, the relict darter, were assessed. All known historical sites and sites in nearby drainages that might harbor the species were surveyed. The relict darter is endemic to the Bayou du Chien drainage, Graves and Hickman counties, Kentucky, where it is most abundant in Jackson Creek and a limited reach of upper Bayou du Chien near the town of Water Valley. The species has a decided affinity for undercut banks and adjacent narrow (<4 m), shallow (<2S cm), moderately flowing (<0.3 m/sec) runs underlain ~vith sandy gravel. At the 5 sites yrelding the species, estimates of the extent of suitable habitat ranged from <5 to 110 m of stream. Suitable cover and spawning habitat were deemed primary limiting factors for the species. Given its limited distribution and apparent dependence on one spawning area, the relict darter is extremely vulnerable to anthropogenic activities.