Inhabits vegetated lakes and ponds, as well as vegetated pools of creeks and small rivers (Ref. 5723). An introduced species in Europe which avoids swift waters and occurs in estuaries with a salinity up to 18.2 ppt (Ref. 59043). Feeds on small fishes and other vertebrates (Ref. 1998), as well as fish eggs (Ref. 2058). Reported in Europe to prey on a wide variety of invertebrates (Ref. 59043). Considered undesirable catch (Ref. 30578).