Taractichthys steindachneri has a moderately compressed deep body, its depth being around half its standard length, which is silvery-black in colour.

It has white margins on the anal, caudal, and pelvic fins and large hard scales which cover the whole of the body,[3] each having a spine.

The oblique mouth opens at the front[2] and its upper and lower jaws are equipped with small, curved canine teeth.

[3] Taractichthys steindachneri is a mesopelagic fish, found at depths of 53–700 metres (174–2,297 ft) and it is frequently recorded in the vicinities of seamounts and the edges of continental shelves.

The high oil content of the flesh means that it can be cooked by grilling, broiling, baking and sauteing; it is also suitable for sushi.