Marine; reef-associated; non-migratory; depth range 0 - 40 m , usually 3 - 20 m . Tropical; 31°N - 20°S, 40°E - 148°W

Maturity: Lm ?  range ? - ? cm Max length : 24.0 cm TL male/unsexed; ; max. published weight: 35.64 g

Dorsal spines (total): 9; Dorsal soft rays (total): 13 - 15; Anal spines: 3; Anal soft rays: 9 - 10. Resembles C. urodeta, but always has a distinctive dark saddle on caudal peduncle ; characterized further by reddish brown head with numerous red-orange or pinkish red spots, extending to pectoral region; mottled pinkish brown body; upper caudal-fin base with large dark brown saddle with smaller saddle just behind; upper part of caudal fin with dark brown streak, less intense streak on lower part; ctenoid scales on body including abdomen; greatest depth of body 2.6-2.9 in SL; rounded caudal fin; pelvic fins, 2.0-2.3 in head length . Body shape (shape guide): fusiform / normal;  Cross section: oval.