Biology

Common in shallow exposed reef flats, lagoons, and seaward reefs; in relatively open areas with scattered corals and occasionally at depth of 36 m (Ref. 205). Benthopelagic (Ref. 58302). Usually in pairs. Juveniles often in small aggregations and commonly mix with other similar sized juveniles, especially C. kleinii. Feed on small worms, small benthic invertebrates, coral polyps, and filamentous algae. Oviparous. Form pairs during breeding (Ref. 205).