The Banded Darter inhabits clear, permanently flowing streams of moderate size. They prefer deep riffles over a rocky bottom. It is found also in clumps of algae-covered debris where water flows slowly over smooth bottoms. They feed on larval insects and spawn in April or May in Kansas. They attach their eggs to strands of algae or other fibrous material on stones in flowing water. This species is common in Shoal Creek, Cherokee County and less abundant in the neighboring Spring River.