Colouration changes in the course of development. Adults with yellow-golden iris.
Juveniles have a high-contrast, characteristic black-white pattern and very long ventral fins. For sub-adult, the black parts are brown and the white portion is narrower.
Size : 60 cm
Habitat : Prefers the steep slopes of lagoons and out reefs, 5-50 m. Alone or in small loose groups.
Distribution : The Maldives to SW Japan, Palau, Southern Mariana Islands, Solomons and New Caledonia.