One of the few true groupers (family Serranidae) found in SA, this species is usually found on the bottom of rocky reefs or under jetties. It is white in colour, with some reddish black countershading, particularly towards the head area, with four thick black bars along the back half of its body. With its distinctive shape and colouration, this species is unlikely to be confused with others, although it may bear a resemblance to the Magpie Perch (Pseudogoniistius nigripes) from a distance.
