West Pacific: Taiwan, Philippines, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, and the Solomon Is.

Distinguished from other species of Apogon in the subgenus Ostorhinchus with 21-25 rudiments + gill rakers, 14-17 lower arch developed gill rakers; the roof of the mouth and portions of gill arches pale; a whitish spot behind the posterior base of the second dorsal fin.

Nocturnal species. Occurs inshore; usually in silty habitat on mud slopes, in lagoons, and sheltered reefs. Usually seen in pairs or schooling, comprising numerous pairs when adult.