It is a demersal fish with a pH range of about 6–7.1.

The species is typically found in streams and rapids with a high gradient, specifically in areas with a boulder substrate.

It reaches 13.1 cm (5.2 inches) SL.

[2] C. spondylus is thought to prefer temperatures of 23 to 27 °C (73 to 80 °F).

This article relating to Hypostominae is a stub.