runoff in streams can be detrimental to egg clusters buried in the gravel streambed, often causing eggs to become detached and free flowing, downstream and out of the protective care of the male. Current management The incentive for conservation action of this species stems from its role as an indicator species; spotty distributions and specialized habitats are of particular concern. Specifically, small populations, isolated by physical impoundments, have an increased risk for a host of genetic problems, including inbreeding effects, genetic drift, and loss of heterozygocity. Anthropogenic effects from siltation buildup, impoundments, strip mining, dredging, agriculture, and roadway runoff have all had detrimental impacts on its breeding and habitat. E. camurum is not currently placed on IUCN's Red list, but NatureServe recommends close monitoring of its habitat and water quality. NatureServe has currently listed E. camurum to be ‘critically imperiled’ in Illinois, Alabama, Indiana, and New York, ‘imperiled’ in Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Virginia, ‘vulnerable’ in West Virginia, and ‘apparently secure’ in Tennessee and Kentucky. Recent efforts in the Ohio River drainage have revived populations back to historical numbers. This has been achieved by attempts to improve water quality in these regions. Studies suggest increased awareness and close monitoring of streams and waterways are needed, suggesting most of the threats to the species well-being are human related. Little information exists for threats caused by predation, invasive species competition, or overfishing. Management recommendations Because of its isolated and specialized habitat, E. camurum is of particular ecological concern. Anthropogenic effects are thought to be the cause of most population decline, as increased human development has been detrimental to both habitat and breeding. Additionally, E. camurum has been linked to spawning of the endangered tan riffleshell (Epioblasma florentina walkeri). Studies have shown the riffelshell larvae attach to E. camurum during maturation. References Eisenhour, D.J. 1995. Systematics of Etheostoma camurum and E. chlorobranchium ( Osteichthyes, Percidae) in the Tennessee and Cumberland river drainages with analysis of hybridization in the Nolichucky river system. Copeia,'' 2, 368-379. Etheostoma Fish described in 1870