Long stretches of the stream have a rocky bottom and there are numerous riffles separating the quiet water of the pools. These riffles provide habitat for a variety of aquatic insects that in turn provide food for a diverse fish community. Darters are among the most colorful members of this fish community. They prefer riffles, but some species can be found in the quiet water of pools. During the spring spawning seasons the males become brightly colored.
Darters tend to be intolerant of pollution and siltation.
The presence of darters is an indication that a stream is relatively healthy. It has a long body with W' or V-shaped' marks that appear connected along the lateral line. The base of both dorsal fins has a red stripe. This species is most common in shallow riffles covered with sand and gravel, but can also be found in areas similar to those inhabited by the greenside and variegate darters. The males are brightly colored with 8-13 blue stripes separated by red bands.