Particularly abundant in shallow, protected bays and inlets, among rocks and kelp beds; also found around pilings and jetties or under floats (Ref. 27436). Juveniles found in loose aggregations in shallow weedy bays, around wharfs, or among floating drift associated with summer tidelines (Ref. 27436). Mainly a benthic feeder, may also take pelagic fishes (Ref. 27436). Viviparous, with planktonic larvae (Ref. 36715). Flesh is tasty, firm and flaky (Ref. 27436). Sold mainly as fresh fillets or live in Chinese restaurants and fish markets; excellent for fish chips or for pan frying as fillets (Ref. 27436).