The anal fin contains from 10 to 12 rays, and the pectoral fins contain from 13 to 17 rays. Body color consists of an emerald green back, a distinct silver lateral band, and a white belly. A complete lateral line has from 35 to 41 scales. This cyprinid inhabits the mid-depth to surface waters of the main channel and chutes in large streams, where they often are found in large schools. Spawning occurs from late May to mid-July.
Young fish feed exclusively on algae.