Mostly observed singly or in small groups for initial phase individuals. Locally initial phase individuals observed forming small groups with other fishes, including juvenile goatfishes and parrotfishes. In Hong Kong, recorded to spawn from April to July. Females mature at less than 8 cm (Total Length) and males mature at approximately 10 cm (Total Length). Once encountered at night with body wedged in rubble and only head exposed. Wary species, difficult to approach for photographing. Reported to be able to changes sexes from females to males.