Common name: Wenchman

General information

The Reef Squirrelfish, Sargocentron coruscum, is a member of the family Holocentridae, known for their bright colors and large, squirrel-like eyes. These nocturnal fish are characterized by their vibrant red hues, silvery sheen, and distinctive sound-producing mechanisms which they use to communicate and ward off predators.

Care

Reef Squirrelfish are relatively hardy and can be a good choice for intermediate aquarists. They require a tank with plenty of hiding places and a peaceful environment, as they can be shy and are easily stressed by aggressive tank mates. They thrive on a varied diet of meaty foods such as shrimp, squid, and fish flesh.

Reproduction

In the wild, Reef Squirrelfish are known to spawn in groups, releasing eggs and sperm into the water column where fertilization occurs externally. In the home aquarium, breeding is rare, but providing a large, well-maintained tank with stable conditions may encourage spawning behavior.

Habitat

Reef Squirrelfish are found in the tropical waters of the Western Atlantic, from Florida and the Bahamas to Brazil, including the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea. They prefer coral reefs and rocky substrates, often hiding in crevices during the day and emerging at night to feed.