Inhabits exposed rocky areas and coral reefs. Often near elkhorn and staghorn corals (Ref. 9710). Commonly found in schools. Juveniles are encountered in Thalassia beds (Ref. 9626). Adults are observed in coral reefs during the day but enters open waters at night to feed on mainly on plankton (Ref. 9626), but also on small crustaceans and mollusks. Mobile invertebrates feeder (Ref. 33499, 57616).