Indo-Pacific: Seychelles to the Society Islands, north to Japan and south to Lord Howe and Rapa Islands. Rare or absent from most of the western Indian Ocean, but common in the Seychelles.

Juveniles under 25 cm black with a few large white blotches. Adults white with numerous small dark spots. Changes from bold black and white pattern to a whitish grey with numerous small black spots over most of the upper body and fins. Often confused with P. chaetodonoides, but is more slender and spots are smaller.

A solitary species found in lagoon and seaward reefs. Adults usually under coral heads or in caves, while juveniles are found in shallow lagoons. Feeds on crustaceans and mollusks. Generally marketed fresh.