Fin's Fish Guide
The Conga tony (Sargocentron coruscum) is a saltwater fish of the family Holocentridae that grows up to 15 cm.
Western Atlantic and Caribbean, on reef areas with sand, rock and coral bottoms.
Description
The reef squirrelfish is a nocturnal reef fish (family Holocentridae) of the western Atlantic and Caribbean. The species reaches about 15 cm and has a fusiform, bright red body with silvery-white longitudinal stripes and large eyes. By day it hides deep in crevices of sandy, rocky and coral bottoms, mainly on seaward reefs; at night it emerges to hunt crustaceans and other small invertebrates. The fish bears a sharp spine on the gill cover. In some areas there are reports of ciguatera poisoning after eating larger specimens.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Conga tony?
The Conga tony has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Nocturnal reef fish that hides in crevices during the day; sharp opercular spine. Note: in tropical areas this species can cause ciguatera poisoning when eaten; large specimens of coral reef predators can accumulate the toxin. Eat with care or avoid in risk areas.
Where does the Conga tony live?
The Conga tony lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic and Caribbean, on reef areas with sand, rock and coral bottoms.
How big does the Conga tony get?
The Conga tony grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Conga tony dangerous to humans?
The Conga tony is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. Beware the sharp gill-cover spine; clean any puncture well. In some areas the flesh can carry ciguatera, so do not eat large reef specimens from risk areas.
Is the Conga tony edible?
The Conga tony is rarely eaten.
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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
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Conga tony is one of 12,519 species in the app.