Colors can be quite variable, from shades of brown to yellow and red. Numerous spots or “freckles” on the head, and a dark stripe on the upper rear body. It rests on branching corals.

Unassessed by the IUCN Red list, but considered to be a common species in tropical waters.

Red Sea and East Africa to Marquesas islands in French Polynesia, Southwest Japan to Australia. Perched on corals (Acropora, Stylophora and Pocillopora) in clear lagoons and seaward reefs, in a depth range of 1-35 meters.

Distinct pairing. Spawning occurs by ascending into the water column over a distance of 1 to 2,5 meters. Males are haremic.