Our commitment to conserving imperiled fish species has prominently featured the propagation efforts directed towards the Boulder Darter. When we embarked on this endeavor in 1998, the species was so rare that we initially utilized the Bloodfin Darter as a surrogate species for propagation. A remarkable discovery emerged during our work with the Bloodfins: despite being Benthic species, meaning they typically dwell on the stream bed supported by their fins, they commence their lives as Pelagic larvae—meaning they inhabit the water column—before transitioning to a Benthic lifestyle. This revelation prompted the Tennessee Valley Authority to modify its operations, temporarily halting the use of electric turbines from late May to early October to mitigate potential impacts on pelagic larvae within the ecosystem.

Monitoring and collecting Boulder Darters presents formidable challenges. Notably, these darters display a remarkable tolerance for varying water depths, necessitating innovative methods such as using diving gear at times rather than snorkeling for monitoring. Collection efforts require strenuous physical exertion, with Conservation Fisheries, Inc. personnel lifting heavy boulders to access the substrate beneath, while colleagues employ seines to capture the elusive fish—a task often resulting in a few bruised shins and ankles.

Within our hatchery, we carefully engineer "love shacks" to stimulate spawning behavior among Boulder Darters. Recognized as crevice spawners, we meticulously assemble terracotta slates and PVC pipes to replicate their ideal habitat, resembling quaint shelters. Ensuring the absence of competing crevices within the tanks is paramount, akin to arranging fish feng shui.

Behaviorally, Boulder Darters exhibit endearing puppy-like traits in their initial year, gradually becoming more skittish as they mature within the hatchery environment. Maintaining a balanced gender ratio within the tanks is crucial, as an imbalance may provoke aggression among females—a behavior uncommon in species of this nature. Remarkably, we've observed Boulder Darters vigilantly guarding their nest sites while displaying remarkable indifference towards their eggs—a behavioral nuance that adds to the intrigue surrounding this species.