They are found in kelp communities and can reach a length of 15 inches. Juveniles have a reddish-brown body with bright blue iridescent spots and strips. The blue coloration disappears in the adult stage and both adult males and females are a brilliant orange color. Adult garibaldi are also highly territorial and will defend their area by making clacking noises and charging intruders. Sheepshead inhabit most rocky reefs and kelp forests.
Canine teeth protrude from mouth in the terminal phase of both female and male sheepshead.
Born females then become males later in life. Senoritas inhabit kelp beds, rocky reefs, and boulder-strawn areas surrounded by sand. They are yellow to orange or orange-brown in color and have large black spots on tail base. Senoritas are cigar-shaped and can be found at depths as deep as 320 feet. Rock Wrasse are often seen by snorkelers and sport divers in California.