Territorial species which occur in shallow lagoon and semi-protected seaward reefs (Ref. 48636). Benthopelagic (Ref. 58302). Closely associated with tabular and staghorn Acropora corals upon which they feed on their polyps and mucus. Solitary or in pairs. Juveniles secretive among coral branches (Ref. 48636). Oviparous (Ref. 205). Form pairs during breeding (Ref. 205).