Author: (Valenciennes, 1835)
FBname: Vermiculated spinefoot
Comments: Juveniles live among mangroves then move out to lagoon and coastal reefs as they mature.  Forms schools.  Feeds on algae growing on seagrasses, mangrove roots and rocks.  Adults congregate inshore in groups of several hundreds to spawn in summer.  Spawning is by pairs; sticky eggs laid on the bottom.  Its very high quality flesh commands premium prices (Ref. 9813).  Adults on coastal reefs, subject to strong currents (Ref. 48637).  This species can tolerate very low salinities (2 ppt) and temperatures up to 38 C (Ref. 37816).