The species Bodianus axillaris undergoes a remarkable colour change as it grows, and B. albomaculatus (Smith) is a synonym based on the juvenile stage.
Details
§ 01
size
Max. 20 cm
color
Juveniles black with large white spots. Adults brown anteriorly and white posteriorly. Large black spots at the pectoral axil and on dorsal and anal fins.
Juveniles are commonly observed in caves, where they feed on benthic invertebrates. On rare occasions, they have been spotted cleaning other fish.
distinctive characters
This fish has a dorsal fin with 12 spines and 9-10 rays, an anal fin with 3 spines and 12-13 rays, a pectoral fin with 15-17 rays, a body depth of 2.8-3.1 in standard length, a pointed snout, and a caudal fin that varies from slightly rounded to slightly double emarginate.