 This species can reach a length of .Habitat includes upland creeks and streams, generally in headwaters, but juveniles and sometimes adults are also sometimes found in larger streams; generally this darter occurs in slow to moderate current in cool, sluggish pools or areas above and below riffles (avoids swift currents) over bedrock, rubble, cobble, and pebble, often interspersed with sandy areas.Spawning occurs apparently in riffles in water about 5–15 cm deep or under or near rocks in raceways.