Indo-Pacific: Red Sea south to Mozambique and east to the Phoenix Islands, north to Japan, south to Australia. Probably including all the islands of the tropical Indian Ocean.

Juveniles with alternating blue and red stripes and 1or 2 black spots at caudal base.

Inhabits coral rich areas and clear waters on lagoon and seaward reefs. Feeds mainly on fishes and probably on crustaceans. The distinctive blue and gold striped juveniles are mimics of the wrasse Halichoeres purpurescens. Juveniles mimic some of the small lined wrasses of the genus Halichoeres or dark damsels in surge zones. This allows the species to approach their preys. In Hong Kong live fish markets.