Indo-Pacific: East Africa to the Line, Marquesan, and Society islands, north to the Izu Islands (Japan), south to New South Wales (Australia); Palau to Kosrae in Micronesia.

Body brownish above, with dark brown saddle blotches; fins transparent, with faint brown spots on dorsal and caudal rays. Prominent black blotch on its caudal peduncle.

Inhabits coral reefs. Commonly found on sand or rubble near coral heads. Frequently caught with S. variegatus and S. englemani, using artisanal gear and trawls. Sold fresh and dried salted in markets.