Common name: Sabre squirrelfish

Scientific name: Sargocentron spiniferum (Forsskål, 1775)

General information

The Giant squirrelfish, Sargocentron spiniferum, is a striking species known for its vibrant red coloration and large, expressive eyes. This nocturnal fish is a member of the Holocentridae family and is often found hiding in crevices during the day. At night, it becomes more active, venturing out to feed.

Details

Recommended minimum tank volume
300 liter (79 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 spots
Diet
Carnivore Prefers live, meaty foods
Social
Solo Territorial, best kept alone
Reefsafe
No May prey on 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
    Sabre squirrelfish
    Sargocentron spiniferum (Forsskål, 1775)
  8. Synonyms
    Adioryx spinifer (Forsskål, 1775)
    Holocentrum binotatum Quoy & Gaimard, 1834
    Holocentrum leo Cuvier, 1829
    Holocentrum melanopterus Bleeker, 1855
    Holocentrum spiniferum (Forsskål, 1775)
    Holocentrum unipunctatum Günther, 1874
    Holocentrus bowiei Jordan & Snyder, 1905
    Holocentrus leo Cuvier, 1829
    Holocentrus spinifer (Forsskål, 1775)
    Holocentrus spiniferus (Forsskål, 1775)
    Holocentrus verticalis Seale, 1906
    Holocentrus xanthurus Fowler, 1944
    Perca spinifer (Forsskål, 1775)
    Sargocentron spinifer (Forsskål, 1775)
    Sciaena spinifer Forsskål, 1775
    Sciaena spinifera Forsskål, 1775

Care

Giant 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. These fish are carnivorous and thrive on a diet of meaty foods such as shrimp, squid, and various prepared frozen foods.

Reproduction

In the wild, squirrelfish are known to spawn by releasing eggs and sperm into the water column, where fertilization occurs externally. In the home aquarium, breeding is rare, but providing a stress-free environment with ample space may encourage spawning behavior.

Habitat

Native to the Indo-Pacific region, Sargocentron spiniferum is commonly found in coral reefs and rocky outcrops, usually at depths ranging from 2 to 180 meters. They are often associated with reef slopes and drop-offs where they can retreat to safety if threatened.