The current distribution of the Round Pigtoe is similar to its historical range: New York and Ontario, west to South Dakota, Kansas and Oklahoma, and south to Arkansas and Alabama. In Canada, it occurs only in Ontario, in lakes Erie and St. Clair and in the Detroit, Grand, Niagara, Sydenham and Thames rivers. Currently, it is extant in the Grand, Thames and Sydenham rivers and in Lake St. Clair.

In small rivers, this species can be found in areas of moderate flow on substrates of gravel, cobble and boulder. In larger rivers, it is found in mud, sand and gravel at varying depths.

The Round Pigtoe is a mollusc belonging to the Family Unionidae. It is a medium to large freshwater mussel, which reaches lengths between 75 and 130 mm. This species is somewhat rectangular in shape but may vary with habitat type. The beak is compressed and slightly elevated beak. The shell of the Round Pigtoe is relatively thick and solid with a roughened surface and concentric rest lines. It is tan in colour (juveniles), darkening to a deep reddish brown with age. Lifespan is unknown, however, other members of the genus may live for over 30 years.