LIFE-HISTORY OF THE LEOPARD DARTER PERCINA - PANTHERINA IN GLOVER RIVER, OKLAHOMA

Life history data were collected by capturing specimens, observing darters in captivity and examining preserved specimens. Field observations and measurements were made monthly at six sites in Glover River, Oklahoma, from August 1985 to September 1988. Percina pantherina remained exclusively in pools during summer, autumn and winter. The fish were usually found at water depths of 25-75 cm, over substrates of cobble and boulder where no current was detectable. The fish spawned on riffles from mid-March to mid-May at water temperatures of 12-20 C. Eggs were buried in patches of fine gravel at water depths of 30-90 cm, where current velocities were 0-50 cm/sec. Growth of juveniles was rapid; the young reached adult size by mid-August. Juveniles were found with adults in the same habitats in pools. Longevity was about 18 months. Abundance was relatively low at all sites and decreased progressively throughout summer. The life history was characterized by rapid growth to maturity; a short life span; and high mortality, both of post-spawning adults and young-of-the-year.