PWe have developed two general models for predicting habitat use in stream fishes both based on energy maximization principles. The model for water-column fishes uses prey-capture success data to predict focal-point velocities that maximize energy intake for water-column feeders (see Grossman, G.D., Rincon, P. A., Farr, M.D., and R. E. Ratajczak. 2002. A new optimal foraging model predicts habitat use by drift-feeding stream minnows. Ecol. Freshwat. Fish 11:2-10). Similarly, our model for benthic feeders predicts that the patchy distribution of prey will be the dominant factor influencing patch-choice in these species (see Petty, T. and G. D. Grossman. 1996. Patch selection by mottled sculpin (Pisces: Cottidae) in a southern Appalachian stream. Freshwat. Biol. 35: 261-276. Thompson, A. R., Petty, J. T. and G. D. Grossman. 2001. Multi-scale effects of resource patchiness on foraging behaviour and habitat use by longnose dace, Rhinichthys cataractae. Freshwat. Biol.46: 145-161. Petty, T. and G. D. Grossman. 2004. Restricted movement by mottled sculpin (Pisces: cottidae) in a southern Appalachian stream. Freshwat. Biol. 49:631-645). We are continuing tests of these models using new species resident to the southern Appalachian streams. Funding for this project comes from USDA Forest Service and the Warnell School of Forest Resources.