Biology

Found in quiet waters with rocky bottoms in inshore and offshore reefs; juveniles sometimes found in surge pools (Ref. 205). Benthopelagic (Ref. 58302). Adults form school. Feed on a variety of algae and zooplankton. 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). Used as food by the Hawaiians (Ref. 7364).