It is found at reefs and over sandy bottoms in the eastern Pacific, ranging from Baja California (Mexico) to Chile.

[1] It can reach 1 metre (3.3 ft) in length but is more common at about half that size.

[1] Covered entirely with platelike scales aside from one scaleless area behind the jaws.

The stone triggerfish has 16 strong protruding teeth with 8 held in each jaw.

Pseudobalistes naufragium feeds on small crustaceans, mollusks, and sea urchins.