Body elongate, slightly compressed. Snout short. A single dorsal fin with XII spines and 7 segmented rays, with deeply incised fin membranes between the spines; anal fin with III spines and 8 segmented rays; pectoral fins with 20 rays; pelvic fins with I spine and 4 segmented rays; caudal fin rounded. Lateral line disjunct and in 2 parts, with a more anterior dorsal lateral line running near dorsal-fin base, a posterior lateral line running midlaterally onto caudal peduncle. Coloration can vary from pale gray with black blotches and blue dots to an almost uniformly black except for the ever-present blue ocellus on the edge of its operculum.
habitats
Benthic species which occurs inshore. Relatively common on reef flats, searching under rocks or in crevices for small fishes and crustaceans which serve as food. Common, but hidden in holes by day. Ventures out to feed on small invertebrates and fishes at
Distribution
Distributed in the Indo-Pacific from Madagascar to the Line Islands; north to southern Japan, south to the southern Great Barrier Reef and Tonga. Throughout Micronesia.
Bleeker, P. 1853 
