In the Cumberland drainage in Tennessee, a scientifically undescribed form possesses two light bars (perpendicular to body length) on its nape.

They spend the majority of their time in moderate-moving, shallow riffles, but can also be found in deeper water (2 to 3 meters deep).

[5][8] The stonecat is a benthic, opportunistic feeder, using its sensitive barbels during the night to search for food on the river bottom.

Stonecats eat a diversity of food items, such as aquatic insect larvae (e.g., mayflies), mollusks, minnows, fish eggs, isopods, amphipods, crayfish, plant material, worms and chilopods.

Stonecats form monogamous pairs for breeding, and spawn when water temperatures reach 25 °C.

Stonecats exhibit parental care, with the male or both sexes guarding the clutch, until the young head to shallower, calmer streams and waters to mature.

[4][5][8] The genus name Noturus, meaning "back tail", refers to the fusion of the adipose and caudal fins.

[4] Stonecats serve as indicators of water quality: they are not present in highly polluted or heavily silted areas.