Biology

Adults inhabit sheltered fringing reefs, usually in bays at depths between about 3-20 m. They usually occur in small aggregations and is closely associated with branching formations of live coral, particularly Acropora spp. and the pocilloporid Seriatopora hystrix. This species hover a short distance above the substratum, presumably feeding on zooplankton (Ref. 84037). 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).