Common name: Threespot squirrelfish

Scientific name: Sargocentron cornutum (Bleeker, 1854)

General information

The Longspine Squirrelfish, Sargocentron cornutum, is a striking species known for its vibrant red coloration and elongated spines on the dorsal fin. This nocturnal fish is a member of the Holocentridae family and is often found hiding in crevices during the day. It has a distinctive sound-producing mechanism that involves the contraction and relaxation of muscles attached to the swim bladder, which can be heard by divers and is used for communication among individuals.

Details

Recommended minimum tank volume
200 liter (53 gallons)
Salinity
S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
Temperature
24 to 28 °C (75 to 82 °F)
Acidity
pH 8 to 8.4
Average size
35 cm (1′2″)
Care level
Moderate to easy Nocturnal, needs hiding places
Diet
Carnivore Prefers live, meaty foods
Social
Solo Territorial, best kept alone
Reefsafe
No May nip at small fish/inverts
Aggression
Semi aggresive Aggressive, especially at night
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
    Sargocentron
  7. Species
    Threespot squirrelfish
    Sargocentron cornutum (Bleeker, 1854)
  8. Synonyms
    Holocentrum cornutum Bleeker, 1854
    Holocentrus cornutum Bleeker, 1854
    Sargocentrum cornutum (Bleeker, 1854)

Care

Longspine Squirrelfish are relatively hardy and can be a good choice for intermediate aquarists. They require an aquarium with plenty of hiding places and a peaceful environment, as they can be shy and are easily outcompeted for food by more aggressive tank mates. A varied diet of meaty foods such as shrimp, squid, and fish flesh is essential for their health.

Reproduction

In the wild, Longspine Squirrelfish are known to form spawning aggregations, releasing eggs and sperm into the water column where fertilization occurs. In the home aquarium, breeding is less common, but with careful attention to water quality and diet, it is possible to encourage spawning behavior.

Habitat

Sargocentron cornutum is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the Line Islands and Tuamoto Islands, north to southern Japan, and south to New Caledonia. They prefer reef environments and are typically found at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 55 meters deep.