Squirrelfish
Squirrelfish, belonging to the family Holocentridae, are an intriguing addition to reef aquariums due to their striking appearance and nocturnal behavior. These fish are characterized by their large eyes, which are adapted for their nighttime hunting activities, and their vibrant red or orange coloration, often with distinctive silver or white markings. Squirrelfish are typically found in tropical and subtropical waters, often residing in crevices and caves on coral reefs during the day and emerging at night to feed on small invertebrates and plankton.
One of the key considerations for keeping Squirrelfish in a home aquarium is their need for plenty of hiding spots. Since they are nocturnal, they require shaded areas or caves where they can retreat during daylight hours. Additionally, they are known for their loud vocalizations, which they produce by grinding their teeth or using their swim bladder, so be prepared for some underwater 'chatter'.
Squirrelfish are generally hardy and can adapt to a range of water conditions, but they do best in well-maintained tanks with stable parameters. They can be kept with a variety of other fish, but it's essential to avoid tank mates that are small enough to be considered prey. They are also known to be somewhat shy and may take time to acclimate to a new environment.
In terms of diet, Squirrelfish are carnivorous and should be fed a varied diet that includes meaty foods such as shrimp, krill, and other marine-based proteins. It's important to feed them during the evening or early morning hours to align with their natural feeding habits.
Overall, Squirrelfish can be a fascinating and beautiful addition to a reef aquarium, provided their specific needs are met. Their unique behavior and striking appearance make them a standout choice for aquarists looking to add some nocturnal activity to their tanks.
- Common name: Yellowfin soapfishScientific name: Diploprion drachi
- Common name: SquirrelfishScientific name: Holocentrus adscensionis
- Common name: longspine squirrelfishScientific name: Holocentrus rufus
- Common name: Japanese Pinecone FishScientific name: Monocentris japonica
- Common name: Shadowfin soldierfishScientific name: Myripristis adusta
- Common name: Brick soldierfishScientific name: Myripristis amaena
- Common name: SquirrelfishScientific name: Myripristis berndti
- Common name: Blacktip soldierfishScientific name: Myripristis botche
- Common name: Yellowfin soldierfishScientific name: Myripristis chryseres
- Common name: Doubletooth soldierfishScientific name: Myripristis hexagona
- Common name: blackbar soldierfishScientific name: Myripristis jacobus
- Common name: Shoulderbar soldierfishScientific name: Myripristis kuntee
- Common name: Pinecone soldierfishScientific name: Myripristis murdjan
- Common name: Scarlet soldierfishScientific name: Myripristis pralinia
- Common name: Scarlet soldierfishScientific name: Myripristis violacea
- Common name: Whitetip soldierfishScientific name: Myripristis vittata
- Common name: Yellowtip soldierfishScientific name: Myripristis xanthacra
- Common name: Clearfin squirrelfishScientific name: Neoniphon argenteus
- Common name: Yellowstriped squirrelfishScientific name: Neoniphon aurolineatus
- Common name: Longjaw squirrelfishScientific name: Neoniphon marianus
- Common name: Black squirrelfishScientific name: Neoniphon opercularis
- Common name: Sammara squirrelfishScientific name: Neoniphon sammara
- Common name: SquirrelfishScientific name: Sargocentron caudimaculatum
- Common name: Threespot squirrelfishScientific name: Sargocentron cornutum
- Common name: WenchmanScientific name: Sargocentron coruscum
- Common name: Crown squirrelfishScientific name: Sargocentron diadema
- Common name: Yellow-striped squirrelfishScientific name: Sargocentron ensifer
- Common name: Red squirrelfishScientific name: Sargocentron hastatum
- Common name: Samurai squirrelfishScientific name: Sargocentron ittodai
- Common name: Blackblotch squirrelfishScientific name: Sargocentron melanospilos
- Common name: Smallmouth squirrelfishScientific name: Sargocentron microstoma
- Common name: Speckled squirrelfishScientific name: Sargocentron punctatissimum
- Common name: Redcoat squirrelfishScientific name: Sargocentron rubrum
- Common name: Sabre squirrelfishScientific name: Sargocentron spiniferum
- Common name: Red squirrelfishScientific name: Sargocentron tiere
- Common name: Pink squirrelfishScientific name: Sargocentron tiereoides
- Common name: WelchmanScientific name: Sargocentron vexillarium
- Common name: Violet squirrelfishScientific name: Sargocentron violaceum
- Common name: Red-white squirrelScientific name: Sargocentron xantherythrum