Max length : 19.0 cm TL male/unsexed; (Ref. 9710); max. reported age: 6 years (Ref. 11318)
Environment
Reef-associated; non-migratory; marine; depth range 4 - 55 m (Ref. 30874)
Climate / Range
Tropical; 32°N - 32°S
Western Pacific: Christmas Island in the eastern Indian Ocean to Fiji, north to southern Japan, south to Scott Reef (eastern Indian Ocean) and Lord Howe Island. Uncommon around oceanic islands (Ref. 9710). Countries | FAO areas | Ecosystems | Occurrences | Introductions
Short description
Dorsalspines
(total): 14;
Dorsalsoft rays
(total): 15 - 16;
Analspines: 3;
Analsoft rays: 16 - 17. Overall black with an elongate vertical black blotch on the middle of the upper sides. When small, mainly black with a white bar; the white bar changes to a central blotch and varies greatly in shape and size (Ref. 48636). Dorsal and anal fins with submarginal blue line; most of the pelvic and the anterior portion of the anal fin yellow. Caudal fin with submarginal blue line.
Relatively uncommon in mixed coral and rubble areas of lagoon and seaward reefs. The largest member of the genus (Ref. 1602). Feeds mainly on algae. Forms harems of 3-7 individuals. Frequently exported through the aquarium trade (Ref. 48391).
