It is found in Portugal and Spain, and known there as the bordallo, escalo or gallego.

Squalius carolitertii is a small endemic cyprinid inhabiting the rivers of the Iberian Peninsula across a large area, including the Douro, Mondego, Lima, Minho, and Lérez basins.

[3] S. carolitertii is an omnivorous fish feeding predominantly on aquatic invertebrates, being nymphs of Baetis spp.

The most abundant prey, although detritus, is an important food item.

[5] "Reading the history of a hybrid fish complex from its molecular record".