Lives in coastal waters at shallow depths, generally from 10-20 m, more seldom from 75-100 m, on rocky bottom with seaweeds. Solitary and secretive, undertakes only limited local movements. Spawns from May to September at 50-70 m depth near the shore throughout its entire range. Feeds on sea stars, crustaceans, worms, mollusks and small fish (Ref. 1371).