Ray-finned fishes (Lat. Actinopterygii)

Perch-likes (Lat. Perciformes)

Surgeonfishes (Lat. Acanthuridae)

60 cm TL

Reef-associated; depth range 1–50 m.

Tropical; 30°N–30°S, 30°E–89°W

Indo-pan-Pacific: East Africa, north to southern Japan, south to the southern Great Barrier Reef and New Caledonia.

Occurs in deep lagoon and seaward reefs. Usually found alone or in pairs. Forms mid-water aggregations off steep slopes during the day to feed on zooplankton. Has the ability to show or hide its blue markings.