Pastel yellowish to pink around the snout, fin edges yellow to orange.
Size : 60 cm
Habitat : Inhabits deep bays, lagoons, canals and sandy areas of outreefs, often also in areas with seagrass, 2-50 m. Feeds on tips of branched coral, shelled snails, crustaceans and sea quirts. Frequently blows on sandy ground standing head first to free prey. Creates large nest troughs in sand or rubble grounds and cares for the brood. Aggressive in the vicinity of the nest, also to divers.
Distribution : Red Sea and East Africa to S Japan, Micronesia and French Polynesia.