Fin's Fish Guide
The Deepwater squirrelfish (Sargocentron bullisi) is a saltwater fish of the family Holocentridae that grows up to 13 cm.
Description
The deepwater squirrelfish is a squirrelfish (Holocentridae) from the western Atlantic Ocean. The species has a red-and-silver striped body with large eyes, adapted to a nocturnal life, and a sharp spine on the gill cover. It lives in deeper waters and adults are found at 33 to 110 metres depth. At night it hunts small crustaceans and other invertebrates. The gill-cover spine is venomous and a sting is painful.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Deepwater squirrelfish?
The Deepwater squirrelfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Red-and-silver striped nocturnal fish with a venomous opercular spine; deep-water squirrelfish.
Where does the Deepwater squirrelfish live?
The Deepwater squirrelfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic; deeper reefs.
How big does the Deepwater squirrelfish get?
The Deepwater squirrelfish grows to a maximum of about 13 cm. On average the species is around 13 cm.
Is the Deepwater squirrelfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Deepwater squirrelfish is harmless to humans. If stung by a fin spine: immerse the affected part in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 degrees C) to break down the venom, and seek medical care for severe or persistent symptoms.
Is the Deepwater squirrelfish edible?
The Deepwater squirrelfish 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
Want the complete picture on the Deepwater squirrelfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Deepwater squirrelfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.