Occurs in clear outer lagoon and seaward reefs, over open sand and rubble as well as dense coral growth. Common is shallow exposed areas (Ref. 9710). Benthopelagic (Ref. 58302). Feeds mainly on shelled benthic invertebrates (crabs, shrimps, gastropods, bivalves, brittle stars, sea urchins), also on polychaete worms and fish eggs.