The Blue Lined Squirrelfish, Bluestripe Squirrelfish, Bluestripe Squirrelfish, Ruby Squirrelfish, Tahitian Squirrelfish, scientifically known as Sargocentron tiere, is a striking and captivating fish species. It exhibits a distinctive color pattern, a slender body shape, and an intriguing nocturnal lifestyle.
Description & Characteristics
The Sargocentron tiere is a relatively large species, reaching a maximum size of 33.0 cm. It boasts an elongated body with a slightly compressed profile, a prominent snout, and a distinctive red-orange coloration. This vibrant hue is further accentuated by bold blue lines that run vertically along the flanks, giving rise to its various common names. The species also possesses large, prominent eyes that are well-suited for its nocturnal foraging habits.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Sargocentron tiere is a widespread inhabitant of tropical and subtropical coral reefs, thriving in the Indo-Pacific region. It exhibits a remarkable depth range, extending from the surface waters down to a depth of 183 meters. This adaptable fish is often encountered in a variety of marine zones, including the epipelagic, mesopelagic, and bathypelagic realms.
Taxonomy
The Sargocentron tiere is classified within the Class: Teleostei, Order: Holocentriformes, and Family: Holocentridae. This classification places it within the group of bony fishes, further categorized as squirrelfishes.
Feeding
The Sargocentron tiere is a carnivorous species, primarily relying on a diet of crustaceans, small fish, shrimp, worms, and zoobenthos. This diverse feeding habit highlights its adaptable nature, allowing it to thrive in various ecological niches within its habitat.
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