Spotted goatfish

Appearance

Dorsal spines (total): 8 - 9; Dorsal soft rays (total): 8. A series of three large blackish blotches on upper side of body beneath dorsal fins; color variable but usually pale, the scales of the back with reddish or yellowish brown edges and a central pale blue spot; diagonal light blue lines on head. Capable of displaying a pattern of large red blotches on head and body in less than a minute

Behavior

Inhabits shallow waters to depths of 90 m, especially over sand and rock bottoms in reef areas. Young juveniles often found on beds of seagrass, e.g. Thalassia. It mostly feeds on small invertebrates.