[2] Habitat includes upland creeks and streams, generally in headwaters, but juveniles and sometimes adults are also sometimes found in larger streams; generally this darter occurs in slow to moderate current in cool, sluggish pools or areas above and below riffles (avoids swift currents) over bedrock, rubble, cobble, and pebble, often interspersed with sandy areas.

[1] Habitat has been severely degraded and limited by water pollution from surface coal mining and gas exploration activities; removal of riparian vegetation; stream channelization; increased siltation associated with poor mining, logging, and agricultural practices; and deforestation of watersheds.

Recent and past research has demonstrated that this darter is intolerant of these conditions, and it has been eliminated from a number of streams across its range.

[1] Conservation Fisheries, Inc. (CFI) reported that CFI, in cooperation with Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife, developed captive propagation protocols for reintroduction of Etheostoma spilotum into streams within its native range to restore populations that have been extirpated.

Reintroduction sites will be chosen where habitat conditions are suitable and there is some level of protection (e.g., within wildlife management area or national forest boundaries).