Origin
Native to the Indo-Pacific, especially reefs surrounding Indonesia, the Philippines, and Papua New Guinea. Inhabits shallow coral reef slopes and rubble zones.

Visual & Behavioral Appeal
Boldly split body coloration with a dark head and vibrant orange tail. It perches on rocks and corals using its pectoral fins like little arms, constantly surveying its surroundings. Their expressive faces and erratic movement patterns make them one of the most personality-driven fish in the hobby.

Purpose
Acts as an algae grazer and perching personality fish. Helps reduce nuisance algae on rocks and hard surfaces while adding animated motion and visual humor to a tank.

Importance
Excellent for keeping small reef tanks clean and interesting. Unlike other algae eaters, it interacts with the environment and exhibits unique facial expressions and curious habits. Also useful in coral systems to reduce microalgae growth.

Included Resources
Needs live rock with crevices or ledges for perching. No special flow or lighting required. Will adapt to a wide range of reef-safe conditions, including nano environments.

Best Use Cases
Great for nano to medium-sized reef tanks, peaceful community systems, and algae management roles. Compatible with most reef-safe fish and invertebrates.

Conservation Context
Wild populations remain stable, but aquacultured individuals are preferred when available to support sustainability and reduce reef harvesting.

Ideal Aquatic Species
• Clownfish
• Cardinalfish
• Firefish gobies
• Peaceful wrasses
• Cleaner shrimp and snails

Region (A)
• Latitude: -5.1354° S
• Longitude: 119.4238° E
(Sulawesi, Indonesia — reef slopes)

Region (B)
• Latitude: -9.4438° S
• Longitude: 147.1803° E
(Papua New Guinea — coral rubble zones)