Tenpounders are found in most tropical and subtropical waters around the world. They are primarily coastal fishes, commonly entering lagoons and estuaries. They spawn offshore and young larvae are found in the open sea. Juveniles move inshore and often occur in tidal streams and mangrove swamps but rarely enter far inland. Tenpounders are predator fishes, feeding mainly on fishes and crustaceans. They are also active swimmers and considered as exciting gamefish for light tackle. Similar to tarpon behaviour, as soon as the hook is set, a tenpounder will perform a series of twisting leaps to try to itself. Despite being called tenpounders, they rarely exceed 10 pounds in weight.
There is only one genus and 7 species of Elopidae worldwide. 2 of the species are found in Malaysia.