It is native to eastern North America, where it is a listed as an endangered species in both Canada and the United States.

Its natural habitat is riffles and shoals of rocky rivers, and the shores of lakes with wave activity.

[5] All Unionidae are known to use the gills, fins, or skin of a host fish for nutrients during the larval glochidia stage.

In 2004, it was discovered that female Epioblasma triquetra mussels lure the unsuspecting fish towards them, then quickly clamp onto the head of the host fish and pump the glochidia larvae into their gills.

The primary confirmed host fish for Epioblasma triquetra was found to be the common logperch, due to it being able to survive this violent encounter.