Recent transect surveys have recorded the species foraging in primary and secondary rainforest, mangroves, subsistence gardens and coconut plantations, but not recently logged forest (T. Leary, T. Lavery, M. Tahi, C. Shaw and R. Pierce pers. obs). Pteropus tuberculatus is a solitary roosting species, occasionally found in pairs. It has been recorded roosting in the lower–mid branches of sub-canopy trees in primary forests and agroforests (T. Leary, T. Lavery, M. Tahi, C. Shaw and R. Pierce pers. obs).

Vanikoro Flying Fox often forages during the day, peaking in the two hours prior to sunset before P. tonganus become active (T. Leary, T. Lavery, M. Tahi, C. Shaw and R. Pierce pers. obs). The species has been documented feeding on flowers, nectar and fruit from a diverse range of food plants (T. Leary, T. Lavery, M. Tahi, C. Shaw and R. Pierce pers. obs). The relative importance of different species of plant in the diet of the Vanikoro Flying Fox is unknown.

Nothing is known of the species longevity or reproduction although Sanborn (1931) records collection of a single juvenile with three adults in August 1926. Other Pteropus species bear a single young, and have a lifespan that is approximately 8 or 9 years.

Recent surveys (2014–2018) have confirmed the existence of the species on Baine (184 km²) and Tevai (20 km²) islands collectively known as Vanikoro Island in the southern Solomon Islands (T. Leary, T. Lavery, M. Tahi, C. Shaw and R. Pierce pers. obs). Although not documented during recent surveys, the species may also exist in low numbers on nearby Utupua Island (60 km²) (J. Gamou pers. comm). The altitudinal range of the species is poorly known, but it has not been recorded above 200 m during recent limited survey above this altitude. Around 35% of the area of these islands are above 200 m. Regardless of whether the species occurs above 200 m, it is the most restricted range Pteropus in the Solomon Islands (Leary and Aujare 1994).

It is listed on Appendix II of CITES, but it is extremely doubtful that the species is currently traded internationally (T. Leary pers. comm). The species is not present in any protected areas. Surveys needed to confirm the species presence on Utupua Island. Additional surveys are needed in a wider range of habitat types and elevations, particularly above 200 m elevation and away from the coastal strip where cultivated food trees are abundant and may, at least seasonally support higher densities of the species. Further research is needed on distribution and habitat use by the species to determine the suitability of logged forests since much of its distribution is now likely to be logged, this should include monitoring of population trends. Further research on the level and impact of hunting and persecution is needed. As little is known of the diet and life history of the species further research is also recommended.