Endemic to southern Africa and found off the coast from Walvis Bay on the west coast to Kwa-Zulu Natal on the east coast.
Lives on rocky reefs and sandy bottoms at depths between 10 to 146 m.
Has spines on its snout just above the mouth and a rough skin. Grows to 35 cm in length.
Feeds on crustaceans, molluscs, sea urchins, brittle stars and worms. Tends to be more active at night.
Often caught in great numbers by trawlers and although edible, it is rarely eaten.