Western Central Pacific: East Indies, Philippines, New Guinea, New Britain, Solomon Islands, and Egum Atoll (Solomon Sea).

Pearly white, with 3 black bars, the first running across the head through the eye, and other 2 from the back to about mid portion of the side. The adjacent dorsal fin also black. Juveniles with yellow abdominal region, and pelvic fins. Inhabits lagoon and coastal areas.

Found in sandy or silty areas around outcrops of rubble on sand, mud, sponge or rocks. Occurs singly or in small groups. Young often with anemones for protection.