It is found in the Tasman Sea, including the Bass Strait.

It has been found on the continental shelf, but typically its depth range is from 750 to 1,000 m (2,460 to 3,280 ft).

The second common name is because its first dorsal fin is made up of long, filamentous rays.

The pelvic fin is long, thin, and scythe-like, and it has a pronounced chin barbel.

The colour is grey-brown with a faint red tint on the body and black-edged median fins.