Found on the continental shelf, generally near the coast but also in deeper waters; penetrated estuaries (Ref. 9283). Juveniles are often found in estuarine waters (Ref. 9283). Feeds mainly on silver-colored fishes, but also takes squids, shrimps and other invertebrates (Ref. 9283). Marketed fresh, salted or dried, and smoked; also utilized as fishmeal and source of oil (Ref. 9283).