Hawaiian Squirrelfish

Sargocentron xantherythrum

Meet the Hawaiian Squirrelfish, a species that is found only around the Hawaiian Islands. They, and all other Squirrelfish, get their name from the defensive sounds that they make-- they sounds like chattering Squirrels!

Hawaiian Squirrelfish are bright red with bold white stripes running horizontally down their bodies. Their scales and gill spines are rough, which sometimes causes the fish to get caught up in netting material. They
also have very large eyes, which make seeing in dark water easier. These fish are nocturnal and are normally only active at night.

During the daytime hours the Squirrelfish hide out in various nooks and crannies of the coral reefs that they live around. You will usually find them in small schools, and they feed on small invertebrates like starfish and crustaceans.

Hawaiian Squirrelfish are sometimes found in the aquarium trade. They are said to be hardy, and are generally peaceful. Keeping several at a time requires a large tank, because they will fight over daytime hiding spaces otherwise.

IUCN Status : Not Listed
Location : Hawaii
Size : Length up to 17cm
Classification : Phylum : Chordata -- Class : Actinopterygii -- Order : Beryciformes
Family : Holocentridae -- Genus : Sargocentron -- Species : S. xantherythrum
Image : Aquarium Domain

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