[2][3] It has a body shape similar to the other hogsuckers having a boxy head, protruding lips, and dark saddles.

[2] The Roanoke hogsucker is well adapted to many environments and can be found typically on the bottom throughout its fresh water river ecosystem.

It can be found in fast flowing rocky streams and sandy silty bottom pools.

It is considered "significantly rare" by the North Carolina Natural Heritage Program because of its limited distribution.

The populations are in no immediate danger but could be quickly harmed if the habitat they live in is not protected from human damage.