Species identity
The 2012 revision of the subgenus Doration redescribed Etheostoma meadiae as a distinct species. Older accounts may place it within Etheostoma stigmaeum. The study compared body structure and breeding colors across the group, rather than treating every similar-looking population as one widespread species.
Sources: Morphological Diversity and Phylogenetics of the Darter Subgenus Doration
Relationships
The revision found evidence suggesting possible historical interbreeding between bluespar darter and Etheostoma jessiae in the Clinch system. It also distinguished bluespar darter by variation in anatomical features of the mouth. These are specialist characters; a locality and a clear photograph provide a starting point, but similar darters can require closer examination.
Sources: Morphological Diversity and Phylogenetics of the Darter Subgenus Doration
Guide sources
Research reviewed 2026-10-19.
- Morphological Diversity and Phylogenetics of the Darter Subgenus Doration — Alabama Museum of Natural History
