Predominantly found in benthic, coastal and surface waters up to a depth of 100 m, this species lures its prey (usually fish) by the movements of its specialized first dorsal spine.
distinctive characters
The dorsal fin has three spines that are well separated from each other and 12-13 rays, with the first dorsal spine being considerably longer than the second and curved posteriorly. The anal fin has 8 rays, the pectoral fin has 10-11 rays, and the skin joining the second dorsal spine to the head is thick and densely spinulose. The gill opening is restricted to a pore, and the caudal peduncle is distinct.