Sabre squirrelfish – Sargocentron spiniferum

Sabre squirrelfish, Giant Squirrelfish , Long-jawed Squirrelfish, Sabre Squirrelfish, Spinecheek Squirrelfish, Spiny Squirrelfish, Sargocentron spiniferum

The Giant Squirrelfish , Long-jawed Squirrelfish, Sabre Squirrelfish, Spinecheek Squirrelfish, Spiny Squirrelfish, scientifically known as Sargocentron spiniferum, is a striking and captivating fish species found in the world’s oceans. This species, belonging to the Squirrelfish family, is characterized by its vibrant red coloration and distinctive physical features.

Description & Characteristics

The Sargocentron spiniferum is a relatively large squirrelfish, reaching a maximum size of 51.0 cm. Its body is elongated and compressed laterally, with a large head and prominent eyes. It possesses a long, sharp snout, giving it its nickname “Long-jawed Squirrelfish.” The fish’s distinctive feature is its prominent spines on its cheeks, hence the common name “Spinecheek Squirrelfish”. These spines are particularly noticeable, giving the fish a somewhat menacing appearance. The scales are small and cycloid, giving the fish a smooth texture. The coloration of the Sargocentron spiniferum varies depending on the environment and individual, but it is typically a vibrant red with hints of orange or yellow. The fins are often edged with a darker red or black, further accentuating its striking appearance.

Habitat and Occurrence

The Giant Squirrelfish , Long-jawed Squirrelfish, Sabre Squirrelfish, Spinecheek Squirrelfish, Spiny Squirrelfish, Sargocentron spiniferum, thrives in a wide range of marine habitats, including the Subtidal, sublittoral, infralittoral, deep zone of the oceans from the lower limit of the intertidal zone (intertidal) to the shelf edge at about 200 m water depth. neritic.. This adaptable fish can be found in a variety of environments, from shallow coral reefs and rocky shores to deeper waters. They are typically associated with reefs and rocky outcrops, often seen hiding in crevices or under overhangs during the day. As a predominantly nocturnal species, the Sargocentron spiniferum emerges at night to feed.

Taxonomy

The species Sargocentron spiniferum belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Holocentriformes, and Family: Holocentridae. This classification places it within the group of bony fishes (Teleostei), which is the largest and most diverse group of fishes. Within this group, it belongs to the Order Holocentriformes, which includes the squirrelfishes, soldierfishes, and their close relatives. Finally, the species is a member of the family Holocentridae, known as the Squirrelfishes.

Feeding

The Giant Squirrelfish , Long-jawed Squirrelfish, Sabre Squirrelfish, Spinecheek Squirrelfish, Spiny Squirrelfish, Sargocentron spiniferum, is a carnivore, primarily feeding on crustaceans and small fishes. Its long, sharp snout allows it to effectively capture prey in crevices and tight spaces. It is a predatory fish, actively hunting for its meals in the darkness of the ocean depths. As a nocturnal feeder, the Sargocentron spiniferum uses its large eyes to navigate and locate prey in the dim light conditions.

Associated Species

Image References

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