Common name: Longjaw squirrelfish

Scientific name: Neoniphon marianus (Cuvier, 1829)
Longjaw Squirrelfish in Little CaymanLongjaw Squirrelfish swimming over the reef in Little Cayman
Longjaw Squirrelfish in Little CaymanLongjaw Squirrelfish in Little Cayman

General information

The Longspine Squirrelfish, Neoniphon marianus, is a striking species known for its vibrant red color and elongated dorsal spines. It is a nocturnal fish, hiding in crevices during the day and emerging at night to feed. This species is relatively hardy and can be a good choice for fish-only or larger reef aquariums where its behavior and coloration can be appreciated.

Details

Recommended minimum tank volume
150 liter (40 gallons)
Salinity
S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
Temperature
24 to 28 °C (75 to 82 °F)
Acidity
pH 8.1 to 8.4
Average size
15 cm (6″)
Care level
Moderate to easy Prefers live rock for hiding
Diet
Carnivore Enjoys mysis, brine shrimp
Social
Solo Can be territorial with conspecifics
Reefsafe
Yes
Aggression
Semi aggresive May nip at small fish, inverts
Captive bred
No

Taxonomy

  1. Kingdom
    Animals
    Animalia
  2. Phylum
    Chordates
    Chordata
  3. Class
    Ray-finned Fishes
    Actinopterygii
  4. Order
    Squirrelfish
    Beryciformes
  5. Family
    Squirrelfish
    Holocentridae
  6. Genus
    Squirrelfish
    Neoniphon
  7. Species
    Longjaw squirrelfish
    Neoniphon marianus (Cuvier, 1829)
  8. Synonyms
    Flammeo marianus (Cuvier, 1829)
    Holocentrum marianum Cuvier, 1829
    Holocentrus marianus Cuvier, 1829

Care

Longspine Squirrelfish require an aquarium with plenty of hiding places and a peaceful environment. They are not aggressive towards other fish but can be territorial with their own kind. It's important to provide a varied diet consisting of meaty foods such as shrimp, squid, and marine fish flesh. They can grow up to 18 cm (7 inches) in length, so a larger tank is necessary to accommodate their size and swimming needs.

Reproduction

In the wild, Longspine Squirrelfish are pelagic spawners, releasing eggs and sperm into the water column where fertilization occurs. In the home aquarium, breeding is rare, but providing a stress-free environment with optimal water conditions may encourage spawning behavior.

Habitat

Neoniphon marianus is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the central Pacific. They prefer coral reefs and rocky outcrops, typically at depths ranging from 3 to 35 meters (10 to 115 feet). In the aquarium, replicating their natural habitat with live rock structures will help them feel secure and display natural behaviors.