Common name: Samurai squirrelfish

Scientific name: Sargocentron ittodai (Jordan & Fowler, 1902)

General information

The Japanese Squirrelfish, Sargocentron ittodai, is a striking species known for its vibrant red coloration and large, expressive eyes. This nocturnal fish is a member of the family Holocentridae and is appreciated by aquarists for its unique appearance and behavior. During the day, it tends to hide in crevices or under overhangs, becoming more active at night when it ventures out to feed.

Details

Recommended minimum tank volume
200 liter (53 gallons)
Salinity
S.G. 1.020 to 1.026
Temperature
24 to 28 °C (75 to 82 °F)
Acidity
pH 7.8 to 8.4
Average size
35 cm (1′2″)
Care level
Moderate to easy Nocturnal, needs hiding places
Diet
Carnivore Prefers live or frozen food
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
    Samurai squirrelfish
    Sargocentron ittodai (Jordan & Fowler, 1902)
  8. Synonyms
    Adioryx ittodai (Jordan & Fowler, 1902)
    Holocentrus ittodai Jordan & Fowler, 1902
    Sargocentron ittadai (Jordan & Fowler, 1902)

Care

Japanese Squirrelfish are relatively hardy and can adapt to life in an aquarium if provided with the right conditions. They require a tank with plenty of hiding places and a peaceful environment, as they can be shy and easily stressed by aggressive tank mates. A diet of meaty foods such as shrimp, squid, and various prepared frozen foods will help maintain their health and coloration.

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

Sargocentron ittodai is found in the Western Pacific, from southern Japan to the South China Sea and Indonesia. They typically inhabit coral reefs and rocky outcrops at depths ranging from 10 to 100 meters, where they can retreat to safety during the day.