Common name: Smallmouth squirrelfish
General information
The Hawaiian Longspine Squirrelfish, Sargocentron microstoma, is a nocturnal species known for its vibrant red color and distinctive long spines on the dorsal fin. This fish is a member of the family Holocentridae and is appreciated for its unique appearance and behavior in the home aquarium.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 150 liter (40 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 24 to 27 °C (75 to 81 °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 and brine shrimp
- Social
- Solo Territorial, best kept alone
- Reefsafe
- No May nip at small fish/inverts
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive Can be territorial
- Captive bred
- No
- Conservation statusSource: IUCN Red List
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderSquirrelfishBeryciformes
- FamilySquirrelfishHolocentridae
- GenusSquirrelfishSargocentron
- SpeciesSmallmouth squirrelfishSargocentron microstoma (Günther, 1859)
- SynonymsAdioryx microstomus (Günther, 1859)Holocentrum microstoma Günther, 1859Holocentrus microstomus Günther, 1859Sargocentron mitrostomus (Günther, 1859)
Care
Sargocentron microstoma requires an aquarium with plenty of hiding places and a peaceful environment. It is a hardy species but can be shy, so it's important to provide a dimly lit tank with caves and overhangs. This fish is carnivorous and thrives on a diet of meaty foods such as shrimp, squid, and various prepared frozen foods.
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 providing a large, well-maintained tank with multiple individuals may encourage spawning behavior.
Habitat
The Hawaiian Longspine Squirrelfish is found in the tropical waters of the Central Pacific, particularly around the Hawaiian Islands. It prefers reef environments with plenty of crevices and overhangs, typically at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 183 meters (600 feet).