[3] S. acapulcoensis is native to the tropical and subtropical eastern Pacific Ocean.

[4] It is often found over sandy seabeds and in tide pools, but also sometimes in rocky or coralline habitats.

[4] Stegastes acapulcoensis farms and guards algae in its territory.

[4] Stegastes acapulcoensis is common in many parts of its range and in the Galapagos Islands the population seems to be increasing.

No particular threats have been identified and the IUCN rate it as being of "least concern".