Fin's Fish Guide
The Fanfin soldier (Sargocentron caudimaculatum) is a saltwater fish of the family Holocentridae that grows up to 25 cm.
Description
The silverspot squirrelfish is a squirrelfish (Holocentridae) from the Indo-West Pacific and one of the more common species of the group. The species reaches about 25 cm and has a red body with a silvery-white spot at the tail base, to which the name refers, and large eyes. It occurs in outer reef areas, lagoons and at drop-offs, from less than 2 to 40 m deep. By day it shelters; at night it hunts benthic crabs and shrimps. At the cheek margin it bears a sharp, venomous spine that can deliver a painful sting when handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Fanfin soldier?
The Fanfin soldier has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a plain pattern. Nocturnal squirrelfish with large eyes and a white blotch at the base of the tail; sharp, venomous cheek spine.
Where does the Fanfin soldier live?
The Fanfin soldier lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific, in outer reef areas and lagoons.
How big does the Fanfin soldier get?
The Fanfin soldier grows to a maximum of about 25 cm. On average the species is around 18 cm.
Is the Fanfin soldier dangerous to humans?
The Fanfin soldier is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. The fin spines are venomous and a sting causes acute, burning pain and swelling. Immerse the wound for 30-90 minutes in water as hot as bearable (about 45 C), remove spine fragments and seek medical help for severe reactions.
Is the Fanfin soldier edible?
The Fanfin soldier 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 Fanfin soldier?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Fanfin soldier is one of 12,519 species in the app.