It is found in the North Pacific Ocean, ranging from Japan to southern California.

[2][3] Taonius borealis is a transparent to dark purple color.

The tentacular club armature consists of four hooked suckers per row, medial suckers with one or two large hooks and several small cusps.

They mostly feed on shrimps, small fishes, including myctophids, and other squids.

Predators include whales, sharks, and squids.