The range of this cyprinid extends from Arkansas to southern Minnesota, east through Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and western New York. Throughout its continental range, the gravel chub has a spotty but wide distribution. In Iowa, the range of the gravel chub is limited to the large interior rivers of central and northeast Iowa, including the Des Moines, Shellrock, Cedar, and Turkey rivers. Recent fish collections in this state indicate this species is more abundant and its range is greater than previously known, and it will probably be lifted from threatened status over at least part of its range.

Body color of the gravel chub is light olive green above with silvery sides and a light blue lateral band. Its most distinctive character is the presence of scattered "x" or "y"-shaped dark markings on its sides and back. The small, subterminal mouth is horizontal, and a barbel is present at the end of the maxillary. The eye appears large in comparison to the head. A complete lateral line contains from 38 to 43 scales. The dorsal and pelvic fin ray counts are 8 in each, while the pectoral fins vary from 13 to 16 rays, and the anal fin contains 7 rays. Strongly hooked pharyngeal teeth are arranged on slender arches in a 4-4 formula. A black or dark mottled peritoneum surrounds the stomach cavity, which contains a looped gut.

Gravel chubs have very specific living requirements, usually preferring swift current over pea gravel bottom. They are bottom feeders, utilizing plant debris, which they find within the gravel crevices. These chubs are early spring spawners, preferring clean gravel riffles for spawning sites. Adults will reach 3 l/2 inches.

*Mayhew, J. (editor). 1987. Iowa Fish and Fishing. Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Des Moines, Iowa. 323 pp.