Sandy and muddy bottoms of sheltered bays. It is able to bury itself in sand, or walk on finger-like ventral fins during its search of food. Characteristics of this species are its large body size for dragonet and bright yellow and blue coloured tail, ventral and the two dorsal fins; its mouth is bright orange. Juveniles are with their white body and brightly coloured pattern sought after photography objects. Solitary or in pairs. As all dragonets, it can be observed mating during dusk. It can be confused with the fingered dragonet, which is about the same size and lives in the same habitat. Finger Dragonet lacks the vivid colouration on its fins.