Range: Eastern Central Pacific Ocean: Hawaii and Johnston Atoll

Size: up to 5 inches (12.5 cm)

Natural Environment: Inhabits coastal reef faces and fore-reef areas at depths of 3 to 450 feet (1 - 138 m) and reaches a length of about 4 inches (10 cm) in the wild. Its diet in the wild consists of filamentous and diatom algae, sponge, and detritus. Males form small social groups containing up to 8 females.

General Husbandry: This very pretty species accepts a wide variety of foods including fortified brine shrimp, mysis, and flake food (especially Spirulina). Requires numerous small feedings per day, as it's a constant browser. May nip corals and other sessile invertebrates, and may also annoy some damselfishes and tangs. Unfortunately, this is often a somewhat secretive species, and in large aquariums with much live rock and hiding places, may seldom be seen. Nevertheless, they do require hiding places, even in small aquariums, as they like to glide in and out of rock crevices while forging for foodstuffs. It's recommended this species be the last fish to be added, as they can be aggressive toward following additions. Also, it is preferable to 'only' add this species to a well-established reef aquarium, as it likes to pick on well-established rocks containing various forms of algae or find accumulations of detritus to ingest. Select only alert looking individuals having a well filled out body, with no body or fin damage.

Their longevity in captivity is questionable, possibly because they are not initially aggressive enough in aquariums containing bold feeders to come to the front of the aquarium when food is introduced. A pretty fish, but often difficult to maintain long-term. Not suited for a small aquarium, i.e., 30 gallons or less, as they become quite aggressive in small aquariums. Prefers a temperature range of 68 - 79°F (20 - 26°C).

Aquarium Suitability: * * *