The Conservation Easement

Least darter is the smallest vertebrate fish species native to Minnesota, averaging only

1.5 inches in total length. This reclusive species prefers shallow and very clear freshwater

lakes and streams. They often live in or near dense stands of submerged aquatic

vegetation over substrates of gravel, sand, or silt and rely on this vegetation for spawning

and cover.

Very little is known about the population of this species in Minnesota or North America.

Prior to 1990 in Minnesota, they were only known from 31 sites in 10 streams.

Subsequent surveys added an additional 47 known sites for the species, though historical

sites have also been lost in highly developed areas. Current populations are thought to

centered around the Otter Tail River system and in the Upper Mississippi River drainage.

Least darter is designated as a “Species of Special Concern” in Minnesota and is

threatened by habitat loss and degradation. The Minnesota DNR recommends protection

of high-quality water systems from human disturbances and development to aid in this

species’ recovery, as well as protection of shoreline to protect water quality and habitat.

In addition to the NHIS record in close proximity to the Protected Property, least darter

were observed in Little Star Lake by Minnesota DNR Fisheries staff in 2010. The

undeveloped and natural shoreline of Little Star Lake on the Protected Property provides

outstanding habitat for this increasingly rare and unique species.

Figure 1: Photo of least darter from Konrad Schmidt, Minnesota DNR