Adults occur in rubble-strewn surge channels, the outermost reaches of exposed reef flats, and the upper submarine terrace at 12 meters. Territorial but they generally occur in groups, and remains close to shelter. Feed mainly on benthic algae and small crustaceans (Ref. 1602, 37816 ). 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).