Western Pacific: southern Japan to Palau, Guam, New Caledonia and southern Queensland, Australia. Eastern Indian Ocean: Nicobar Islands to Broome, Western Australia. Reports from western Indian Ocean (Heemstra and Randall 1984, 1986, are unsubstantiated, except one from Kenya which seems valid. Records from Hawaii are probably based on released aquarium fishes.

Generally inhabits lagoon and seaward reefs and are typically found in dead or silty areas. Also found around coral reefs and in tide pools. Growth is very slow. Feed on small fishes and crustaceans. Artificial spawning was accomplished by Tang et al. 1979 where eggs are buoyant, 0.80-0.83 mm in diameter with a single oil droplet; larvae died after 7 days. Juveniles are commonly caught for the aquarium trade while adults are utilized as a food fish. In Hong Kong live fish markets.