Indo-West Pacific: East Africa to Samoa, north to the Yaeyamas, south to the Great Barrier Reef.

Semi-transparent to whitish, silvery on sides; blue spots may be present on operculum and behind pectoral fins; black spot at base of caudal fin.

Occurs in sheltered lagoons and bays, above branching corals and among reef crevices. Forms large schools, often with other species.