They are endemic to shallow swamps, creeks, streams and pools in the Atlantic Forest in southeastern Brazil, ranging from Rio de Janeiro to Santa Catarina.

[2][3] Several of the species are highly threatened, while others survive in well-protected reserves.

[3] Similar to closely related genera such as Anablepsoides, Cynodonichthys, Laimosemion and Melanorivulus, Atlantirivulus are non-annual killifish.

[5] Compared to many species in the family, the colors of Atlantirivulus are relatively dull.

[3] Until 2011, Atlantirivulus were included in Rivulus,[2] and some prefer to maintain them in that genus.