Adults inhabit inshore and offshore coral reefs (Ref. 9710). Also found in harbors, lagoons and outer reef slopes. The only pomacentrid species that lacks a pelagic larval stage. One of the very few marine fishes where fry are guarded by the parents (Ref. 9710, 48636). School as they grow and sub-adults are usually seen in small groups. Adults form pairs and are territorial when breeding (Ref. 48636). Monogamous (Ref. 52884). Oviparous (Ref. 205). Eggs are demersal and adhere to the substrate (Ref. 205). Males guard and aerate the eggs (Ref. 205).