Adults are found inshore, usually along sandy beaches, in bays and inlets. They enter estuaries and fresh water, preferring cloudy (turbid) water. They occur in schools, usually large and fast moving, often leaping out of the water. Juveniles may float at the surface with tail bent and head down. Adults feed on fishes and crustaceans. Juveniles have incisor-like outer teeth and serve as cleaners for other fish; as fish grow, their teeth become conical and their diet changes. Caution: The dorsal and anal spines are connected to venomous glands that can inflict painful wounds.