*Information from FAO Species Identification Guide Western Central Atlantic*
Size
To about 50 cm, commonly 30 to 40 cm.
Habitat, biology, and fisheries
Lives on or near bottom at depths from near shore to more than 550 m depth, most abundant at 110 and 130 m; juveniles live in shallow waters along coast, migrating to deeper waters with increasing size. Juveniles live commensually in scallops (Placopecten magellanicus), then in the vicinity of scallop beds until their second year of life. Matures in two years at about 30 cm; moves inshore from spring to summer to spawn, and spends winter offshore in deeper waters; depth and distribution highly dependent on temperature. Feeds primarily on crustaceans, but also on squid and fishes. Of variable commercial importance, but of minor importance in Area 31. Taken in trawls; marketed fresh and frozen; smaller fish used in animal feeds.
