Biology

Found in rubble areas in passages and outer reef slopes. Also occurs in lagoons. Feeds on zooplankton and other benthic invertebrates. Some geographical variations of nuptial males that are influenced by the presence of similar species. Occurs in small to large groups usually in depths of 10 m or more. Usually most common at about 25 m depth. Males readily display to each other or to females to spawn by flashing their colors and 'racing' past with erected fins. Hybridizes with several other species, and are most colorful where other similar species occur in the same area (Ref. 48636). At 15 cm SL, this could well be the largest species of the genus so far (CB).