Fin's Fish Guide
The Epaulet soldierfish (Myripristis kuntee) is a saltwater fish of the family Holocentridae that grows up to 26 cm.
Description
The shoulderbar soldierfish is a soldierfish (Holocentridae) from the Indo-Pacific. The species has a red body with large eyes and a dark bar behind the gill opening, characteristic of the group. It is nocturnal: by day it hides in cracks and caves of reef flats, lagoons and outer reefs, at night it hunts large zooplankton in the open water. Unlike the true squirrelfishes it lacks a venomous gill-cover spine. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Epaulet soldierfish?
The Epaulet soldierfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a plain pattern. Red with large eyes and a dark shoulder band; nocturnal plankton eater without a venomous spine.
Where does the Epaulet soldierfish live?
The Epaulet soldierfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific; reef flats, lagoons and outer reefs.
How big does the Epaulet soldierfish get?
The Epaulet soldierfish grows to a maximum of about 26 cm. On average the species is around 16 cm.
Is the Epaulet soldierfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Epaulet soldierfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Epaulet soldierfish edible?
Yes, the Epaulet soldierfish is commonly 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 Epaulet soldierfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Epaulet soldierfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.