The shoal chub inhabits shallow riffles of large low-gradient streams of shifting sand. It is currently found in the Republican and lower Kansas rivers. However, it is now considered rare in the Kansas River where it was once abundant. It was previously classified as a subspecies of the speckled chub until research showed they were separate species (shoal and peppered chub). The lifespan is relatively short as few fish live beyond their first year. The spawning season is long (May-August) and occurs after rainfall events increase flow. The eggs develop as they drift downstream. The shoal chub is relatively small (to 2 ¾ inches), has small eyes, black speckling on its back and a fleshy extension referred to as a barbel at the corner of its mouth.