Biology

Adults inhabit lagoon and seaward reefs (Ref. 9710), found mainly in protected coastal waters and lagoons. Typically found in pairs in which males are much smaller than females (Ref. 48636). Feed primarily on zooplankton and benthic algae (Ref. 4966). 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). Associated with the anemone Entacmaea quadricolor (Ref. 5911). Have been reared in captivity (Ref. 35404, 35413, 35420).