SquirrelfishesHolocentrinae

Squirrelfishes are marine fishes measuring 10-30 cm (4-12 in) long. They have large eyes and display prominent red or reddish-pink body coloration, often accented by white or yellow stripes and spots. Many species have strong spines on their gill covers and dorsal fins; their common name alludes to the ability of some species to raise the dorsal fin into a large, fan-shaped structure for communication and defense.

These fishes are primarily nocturnal predators, hunting small crustaceans, fish, and other invertebrates at night. During daylight hours, they shelter within coral reefs, under ledges, in caves, or in rocky crevices. They typically occur from the shallow reef crest down to depths of 50 m (165 ft) or more on reef slopes. Some species produce clicking sounds through their swim bladder, believed to be for communication.