Occurs primarily on coral reefs. Secretive and usually solitary, under ledges or near small caves . Often seen during the day around the bases of corals . Feeds at night on crabs, shrimps, and polychaetes. Easily approached . Has been reared in captivity .
Dorsal spines (total): 11 - 13; Dorsal soft rays (total): 45 - 47; Anal spines: 2; Anal soft rays: 6 - 8. First dorsal fin very high with short base. Second dorsal and caudal fins dark with white spots and dashes . Head white with two dark brown bars, one through eye, the other more posterior and more diagonal, extending across chest to pelvic fins; body white with a broad dark brown band beginning on front of first dorsal fin, curving across nape, above pectoral fin, and running to mid-base of caudal fin; two narrower dark stripes above and below this band . Mouth small, inferior, nearly horizontal. Spinous dorsal fin very elevated, higher than head length. Gas bladder simple, carrot-shaped without appendages. Sagitta (large earstone) near rounded and thick (Ref 51721).: fusiform / normal.
Behavioural data for Spotted drum is currently being reviewed.
Diet information for Spotted drum is currently being compiled.
Oviparous .
Marine; reef-associated; depth range 3 - 30 m . Tropical; 36°N - 24°S, 98°W - 28°W
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