Occurs in the Indian Ocean from Natal south to Cape St. Francis (Ref. 12484, 12501, 33390, 58304). Known from Limpopo River (Ref. 244, 13721), Pongolo River (Ref. 12501, 83366, 86423), the variably hypersaline St. Lucia Lake system (Ref. 244) and the White Umfolosi River (Ref. 57927). Caught also from Breede Estuary on the south-west coast of the country (Ref. 85726, 85808). In Lake St. Lucia the species can tolerate salinities of up to 53‰, but specimens caught there are in poor condition despite adequate food and ability to feed (Ref. 244). It is not commercially important, but it is considered a good food fish (Ref. 12484). The stock is locally depressed; reduced by Natal shark nets (Ref. 4332). Also Ref. 5485, 5578.