This species is common on lagoon, pinnacle and seaward reefs. They are usually seen in pairs, often hanging around rocky outcrops or coral heads, into or under which they retreat when approached by divers. It eats a variety of benthic invertebrates, but opisthobranch mollusks (nudibranchs and their relatives) are reported to form a fairly large part of their diet. They are often reported to forage at night, although when we see them while night diving, they have their night colors and do not seem especially active. However, night would be a more likely time to find opisthobranch mollusks.
The individual below photographed in Hawaii at night shows its blotchy nighttime coloration.
Created 15 October 2010
Updated 13 November 2020