Crown Squirrellfish

Sargocentron diadema, commonly known as the crowned squirrelfish, is a vibrant species of marine fish belonging to the family Holocentridae. These fish are primarily found in the tropical Indo-Pacific region, including the 🌊 Red Sea, East Africa, and extending eastward to the Hawaiian Islands. They thrive in shallow coral reefs, lagoons, and seaward reefs, typically ranging in depths from 1 to 60 meters (3 to 196 feet), though they are most commonly found between 2 to 30 meters (7 to 98 feet).

The crowned squirrelfish is notable for its striking red coloration, adorned with narrow white stripes that run from its gill cover to the tail. It also features distinctive white streaks on its head. Typically, this species grows to a maximum length of 17 centimeters (approximately 6.7 inches), though individuals rarely exceed 13 centimeters (about 5.1 inches).

These fish have a unique lifestyle, often hiding beneath ledges or within crevices during the day and becoming more active at night. Nocturnally, they venture over open sand and low-profile reef areas to feed on various invertebrates such as polychaetes, small crabs, and crustaceans. They are also known to graze on isopods and gastropods.

Structurally, the crowned squirrelfish has 11 dorsal spines, 12 to 14 dorsal soft rays, 4 anal spines, and 8 to 9 anal soft rays. Its body is characterized by broad red and narrow silvery-white stripes, accompanied by a distinct reddish-black to black dorsal fin with white streaks. One notable feature is the venomous spine located on its preopercle.

This species tends to form aggregations and is occasionally involved in minor commercial fisheries, as well as the aquarium trade. Despite their minor role in commercial fisheries, crowned squirrelfish make a captivating addition to aquariums due to their vibrant appearance and interesting behaviors.