It is native to the eastern Pacific Ocean, found off the coast of Mexico.

It has a limited distribution, found in the Magdalena Bay and along the Baja California peninsula, as well as part of the Gulf of California.

It is a demersal fish that lives in sandy or muddy bottoms of tropical waters, at depths of between 73 and 146 metres (240 and 479 ft).

Like the rest of the large-tooth flounders, the mimic sanddab has both eyes on the left side of its head.

It is a brownish color, mottled with darker patches.