Biology

Inhabit seaward reefs, in areas of mixed sand, rubble and coral (Ref. 9710) to at least 30 m depth (Ref. 9823). Juveniles seen in groups near the bottom while adults found high above the bottom (Ref. 9710). Juveniles and females usually in small groups. Males solitary and territorial, patrolling large sections of reefs (Ref. 48636). Feed mainly on fishes (about 50%, Ref. 5503) and crustaceans (shrimps) and to a lesser extent on brittlestars and polychaetes (Ref. 1602).