Fin's Fish Guide
The Bastard soldierfish (Myripristis jacobus) is a saltwater fish of the family Holocentridae that grows up to 25 cm.
Description
The blackbar soldierfish (Myripristis jacobus) is a squirrel- or soldierfish of the family Holocentridae from the Atlantic. The species has a stocky, bright-red body with a conspicuous dark bar behind the gill cover, large eyes and strong fin spines, and reaches about 25 cm. It is nocturnal and by day shelters in schools in caves and crevices of shallow and deeper coral reefs; at night it swims out to pick zooplankton from the water. The large eyes aid its nocturnal life. The species is of limited commercial importance and is sometimes kept in marine aquaria.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Bastard soldierfish?
The Bastard soldierfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a plain pattern. Bright red with a dark band behind the operculum; nocturnal plankton feeder with large eyes.
Where does the Bastard soldierfish live?
The Bastard soldierfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Coral reefs of the Atlantic Ocean.
How big does the Bastard soldierfish get?
The Bastard soldierfish grows to a maximum of about 25 cm. On average the species is around 20 cm.
Is the Bastard soldierfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Bastard soldierfish is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Bastard soldierfish edible?
The Bastard soldierfish is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Myripristis
More from the family Holocentridae
Want the complete picture on the Bastard soldierfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Bastard soldierfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.