Adults are common above deep outer reefs and feeds in aggregations of the small zooplankton, primarily copepods (Ref. 13442). Often with creole wrasse. They retreat into coral crevices when frightened (Ref. 9710). Oviparous, distinct pairing during breeding (Ref. 205). Eggs are demersal and adhere to the substrate (Ref. 205). Males guard and aerate the eggs (Ref. 205).