Inhabit steep outer reef slopes, channel slopes, and lagoon reefs. Usually solitary but may occur in pairs. Juveniles are encountered in coral-rich areas of lagoon reefs, where staghorn Acropora corals abound (Ref. 1602, 58534). Adults rove across the reefs by day and rest in reef caves and under coral ledges at night (Ref. 31343). Primary food are molluscs, fishes, sea urchins, crustaceans, and other invertebrates (Ref. 1602).