Environment/Climate/Range |
Marine; reef-associated; depth range 2 - 25 m. Tropical, 30°N - 36°S, 19°E - 62°E |
Distribution |
Western Indian Ocean: Persian Gulf and Red Sea to Transkei in South Africa, Seychelles, and Mauritius. |
Size / Weight / Age |
It attains a Max length : 60.0 cm; max. reported age: 14 years. |
Short description |
Dorsal spines (total): 12; Dorsal soft rays (total): 17-18; Anal spines: 3; Anal soft rays: 7 - 8. Adults dark grey with orange-red lips and opercle edge; fins dark, membrane at front of dorsal fin narrowly black. Juveniles colorful. |
Biology |
Found over rocks and corals, as well as shallow weedy areas. Solitary or in small groups close to shelter. Marketed fresh. |