These are common on seaward reefs, although we see more of the reddish brown initial phase than the colorful terminal males. The purplish gray color on the head that ends in a diagonal line up from above the pectoral fin is similar to that of terminal male Scarus oviceps, with which this species can be confused. They are relatively common on the seaward reef but can also be found on lagoon reefs and pinnacles.
The common name comes from the initial phase, which is usually reddish brown, often with a while spot in the center of each side.
Asleep at night.
Possibly slightly older ones that have dropped the white spot.
Another asleep at night.
The photo below by Stan Jazwinski shows what appears to be a juvenile.
Even younger.
Created 8 March 2015
Updated 19 June 2021