Usually observed on moderately sheltered outer reef slopes, over sand-rubble substrates, with occasional coral ridges and sea whips . Frequently in turbid waters, solitary or in groups .
Dorsal spines (total): 10; Dorsal soft rays (total): 9; Anal spines: 3; Anal soft rays: 7. This species is distinguished by the following characters: caudal fin forked with upper and lower rays as long trailing filaments; a single dusky (blue in life) stripe on side of snout; a pale-yellow stripe in life on middle of side that can be instantly 'switched' on or off; predorsal scales up to level between posterior margin of posterior nostrils; suborbital is scaled; lower limb of preopercle with 3 rows of scales; 45-46 lateral-line scales; 15-16 pectoral-fin rays; pelvic fins moderately long, in adult males, reaching level of anus .: fusiform / normal.
Behavioural data for Papuan whiptail is currently being reviewed.
Diet information for Papuan whiptail is currently being compiled.
Reproduction data for Papuan whiptail is currently being compiled.
Marine; pelagic-neritic; depth range 12 - 60 m , usually 18 - 60 m . Tropical
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