characterized by rubble and gravel-like substrate. Additionally, the species favors sloped rock riffles and crevasses which provide ample shelter from predators. The Maryland darter is a relatively smaller darter species with a maximum size of just under three inches. The species favors small insects, frequently foraging on small snails, caddis fly larvae, mayfly larvae, and stonefly nymphs. Spawning presumably occurs in late April as is characteristic of most other darter species, however the Maryland darter has never been observed during reproduction. Species status The Maryland darter is listed as endangered by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service The United States Fish and Wildlife Service has determined that due to difficulty of detection, in spite of infrequent observations since initial discovery in 1912, that is not sufficient evidence to declare the species extinct. However, other organizations such as the IUCN has listed the Maryland darter as extinct on the IUCN list of threatened species. The state of Maryland has the species listed as SH, indicating that, historically, the species occurred in the state but is believed to be extirpated, having not been observed for a period of over 20 years. Recovery efforts The Maryland Darter Recovery Plan is a plan implemented by the Wildlife and Heritage Service of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, devised in cooperation with the United States Fish and Wildlife Service. The intent of the plan is to implement widespread detection efforts using a variety of techniques. including electro-fishing equipment and electro trawls, in an effort to learn more about this rare species. The plan also recommends the protection of the Deer Creek watershed through the use of improved farming and forestry practices. In addition, strips of naturally vegetated lands are to be constructed adjacent to Deer Creek in an effort to insulate the watershed from harmful nearby agricultural runoff. The root systems and leaf cover established by these buffers would, in addition to preventing erosion, would help to absorb toxic chemicals and filter solid waste before it has a chance to enter the watershed. Additionally, surveys have been conducted by the Maryland Biological Stream Survey (MBSS) in 2001 through 2006. Six sites in Deer Creek were surveyed by MBSS as well as 22 additional sites in the greater Deer Creek watershed. One site in Gasheys Run, one site in the mainstem of Swan Creek, and four more sites within the greater Swan Creek Watershed were