The species in the subfamily Congrogadidae have elongated rather eel-like bodies which are covered in with small cycloid scales.

They have a protractable mouth and there is a rear facing spine on the opercle.

[2] They lay eggs which are covered in hooks, some of which may develop into filaments.

[3] The species in the Congrogadinae inhabit coral reefs as well as sand and mud substrates from the intertidal zone down to 140 metres (460 ft).

There is one species which lives within sponges which is found in the Gulf of Carpentaria.