Please Note: Red text is defined in the Glossary

Description
The Cape Fear spike may reach about three inches in length. The anterior third of the shell is considerably thicker than the posterior third, and the shell appears to significantly thicken as individuals grow. The shell is distinctly wedge shaped without sexual dimorphism. The swollen posterior ridge is keeled and the posterior slope is narrow and concave. Adults have one or two radial grooves on the posterior slopes. Growth rests are clearly expressed in the shells. The periostracum of young individuals is smooth with a shiny, yellow-brown color. Green rays may be present on the posterior half of the shell. Older individuals are a dark brownish-black with roughened margins and posterior slopes.

Distribution (see map)
Distribution by County: Cape Fear River Basin: Bladen Co. (Black River Subbasin); Cumberland Co. (Cape Fear River); Pender Co. (Black River Subbasin); Sampson Co. (Black River Subbasin). Lumber River Basin: Robeson Co. (Ashpole Swamp, Aarons Swamp). Neuse River Basin: Johnston Co. (Swift Cr. and Little River subbasins). NOTE: All headwater areas that flow into these occupied habitats should receive special management.

Habitat Preferences
As provided by Fuller (1972), the Cape Fear spike was found in muddy, loose, sandy substrates below logjams. Since discovery, it has also been found in firm, sandy substrates.

Life History
Fuller (1972) found gravid females around the middle of June. Nothing is known about the fish hosts or ecology of the species.