Fin's Fish Guide
The Blackblotch squirrelfish (Sargocentron melanospilos) is a saltwater fish of the family Holocentridae that grows up to 25 cm.
Description
The blackblotch squirrelfish is a squirrelfish from the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 25 cm and has a red body with silvery-white longitudinal stripes, large eyes and a few dark blotches. On the gill cover it bears a sharp, weakly venomous spine that can give a painful prick. As a nocturnal reef fish it shelters by day in crevices and caves and hunts crustaceans and small fish at night. It is a local food fish. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blackblotch squirrelfish?
The Blackblotch squirrelfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Sharp opercular spine with weak venom; nocturnal red soldierfish
Where does the Blackblotch squirrelfish live?
The Blackblotch squirrelfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific
How big does the Blackblotch squirrelfish get?
The Blackblotch squirrelfish grows to a maximum of about 25 cm.
Is the Blackblotch squirrelfish dangerous to humans?
The Blackblotch squirrelfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. If stung by the spines: immerse the affected part in water as hot as tolerable (about 45 C) for 30-90 minutes to break down the venom, remove visible spine fragments, and seek medical help for severe pain or swelling.
Is the Blackblotch squirrelfish edible?
Yes, the Blackblotch squirrelfish is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Sargocentron
More from the family Holocentridae
Want the complete picture on the Blackblotch squirrelfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blackblotch squirrelfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.