The Rivulus paresi lives in the benthopelagic, freshwater environment.
Rivulus paresi differs from all other species of Melanorivulus by possessing a reticulate color pattern on the dorsal fin and the basal portion of the anal fin in males and a narrow basihyal. Rivulus bororo and R. More
Rivulus paresi is distinguished from other members of Melanorivulus in having small white spots that form a reticulate pattern on the dorsal fin and the basal portion of the anal fin, and forming narrow bars on the caudal fin in males, a narrow basihyal, More