Indian Ocean: Maldives and Cocos Islands. Western Pacific: Sumatra to Fiji and New Caledonia, north to Ryukyu Islands, south to Rowley Shoals.

Juveniles brown with large white blotches. Becomes more spotted with age, reversing from white to black spotted in the process. Deeper bodies compared to most others in the genus.

Inhabits coral-rich areas of clear lagoon and seaward reefs. Adults are solitary, near and under ledges or caves by day. Juveniles are found among corals. Feeds on crustaceans, mollusks, and fishes at night. Juveniles are used in the aquarium industry.