Biology

Adults inhabit surge-swept shorelines and seaward reef margins. Juveniles often occur in pockets of the intertidal reef crest, while adults are found in ridges between surge channels (Ref. 1602). Feed on benthic algae. Juveniles found in sheltered ocean bays, shallow low boulder-reefs above sand level. Known in clear-water reefs in gutters and upper edge of drop-offs (Ref. 9002). 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).