Neoniphon
Neoniphon is a genus of marine fish belonging to the family Holocentridae, commonly known as squirrelfishes. These fish are widely distributed in the Indo-Pacific region, inhabiting tropical and subtropical waters.
Common Names
Common names for Neoniphon species include:
- Squirrelfishes
- Slender squirrelfishes
Characteristics
Neoniphon species share several distinctive characteristics:
- Elongated, compressed bodies
- Large eyes
- Scales that are ctenoid (rough and comb-like)
- Dorsal fin with 11 spines and 10-12 soft rays
- Anal fin with 4 spines and 8-9 soft rays
- A single, long, continuous lateral line
- Coloration typically red, orange, or pink with dark markings
Environments
Neoniphon species are primarily found in coral reefs, rocky reefs, and seagrass beds. They are often found in shallow waters, but some species can occur at depths of up to 100 meters. They are nocturnal, hiding during the day and foraging at night for invertebrates and small fish.
References
For further information on Neoniphon, consult the following reliable sources: