Common name: Red squirrelfish

General information

The Redcoat Squirrelfish, Sargocentron hastatum, is a striking species known for its vibrant red coloration and elongated spines. This nocturnal fish is part of the Holocentridae family, which is characterized by their large eyes, sharp opercular spines, and their ability to produce sounds using their swim bladder and associated muscles.

Care

Redcoat 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 during the day. At night, they become more active and may display more aggressive feeding behavior. It's important to provide a varied diet consisting of meaty foods like shrimp, squid, and fish flesh.

Reproduction

In the wild, 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 less common, but with careful attention to water quality and diet, it is possible to encourage spawning behavior.

Habitat

Redcoat Squirrelfish are found in the Western Atlantic, from North Carolina and Bermuda to Brazil, including the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea. They inhabit reef environments, often hiding in crevices during the day and emerging at night to feed. They can be found at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 55 meters.