Hawaiian squirrelfish (Sargocentron xantherythrum)

Image source: Jo's Animal Database
General data
- Main name: Hawaiian squirrelfish
- Climates: Tropical
- Habitat: Saltwater
- Native: Australia & Oceania
- Distribution: Pacific Ocean
Classification
- Genus: Sargocentron - Sargocentron
- Family: Holocentridae - Squirrelfishes
- Order: Holocentriformes - Squirrelfishes
- Class: Teleostei - Ray-finned fishes
- Superclass: Osteichthyes - Bony fishes
Description
Sargocentron xantherythrum, commonly known as Hawaiian squirrelfish or striped squirrelfish, is a member of the squirrelfish family. It is known from the Hawaiian Islands and Johnston Atoll. It grows to a total length of 17 centimeters (6.7 in). This fish has a red coloration with white stripes running along the body. It has sharp gill spines and rough scales that can cause the fish to be snagged in netting materials. This is a nocturnal species that inhabits seaward reefs below the surge zone, and is common near caves and ledges. It feeds mainly on worms, crustaceans and starfish.