It was moved to the resurrected genus Melionyx based on the results of a molecular phylogenetic study published in 2019.

It is distinguished from the similar sooty honeyeaters by its wispy white beard, which reaches the bend of its wing.

[5] The honeyeaters inhabit the tree canopies, eating nectar, fruit and insects.

[6] Where once it was thought that it was threatened by habitat loss, it is now believed that its ability to live on edges of fragmented land may mean that it is less at risk.

[5] No conservation measures are in place; however, there is a proposal to undertake a survey of forest blocks at suitable altitudes.