Sargocentron spiniferum

Family : Holocentridae

Common Name : Sabre squirrelfish

Scientific Name : Sargocentron spiniferum

Maximum length : 45cm

IUCN Red List Status : LC (Least concern)

Overall red without stripes on side, frequently grading to yellowish on lower side, uniform bright red dorsal fin, and often yellowish anal and pelvic fins.

A solitary species that inhabits a variety of reef zones from reef flats to lagoon and seaward reefs to a depth of at least 122 m and is fairly common in areas not subjected to heavy spear fishing. Found under ledges during the day. Benthopelagic. Largest species of squirrelfish and the highest-bodied Sargocentron. Juvenile inhabits shallow protected reefs. A nocturnal species that feeds on crabs, shrimps and small fishes. Spine of preopercle venomous. Largest squirrelfish.

From southwest Sumatra to Timor Sea. Also recorded from Raja Ampat Islands, Manado and vicinity, Sangalakki Island and Togean and Banggai Islands; with an Indonesian distribution from Papua to Sumatra

Photo courtesy ericvandeering

Photo courtesy Juan Andrés Fuentes Martínez