Fin's Fish Guide
The Giant squirrelfish (Sargocentron spiniferum) is a saltwater fish of the family Holocentridae that grows up to 51 cm.
Description
The sabre squirrelfish is the largest squirrelfish of the family Holocentridae from the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 51 cm and has a red body with silvery scale margins, large eyes and a conspicuously long, sabre-like spine on the gill cover, to which the name refers. It is a solitary, nocturnal reef fish that shelters by day in crevices and caves and hunts crustaceans, small fishes and snails at night. The preopercular gill-cover spine bears venom; a sting gives a painful wound, so handle the fish with care.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Giant squirrelfish?
The Giant squirrelfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a plain pattern. Largest squirrelfish, red with large eyes and a long, venomous sabre-shaped 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 caution or avoid in risk areas.
Where does the Giant squirrelfish live?
The Giant squirrelfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific; varied reef zones from reef flats to lagoons.
How big does the Giant squirrelfish get?
The Giant squirrelfish grows to a maximum of about 51 cm. On average the species is around 35 cm.
Is the Giant squirrelfish dangerous to humans?
The Giant squirrelfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. The fin spines are venomous and give a painful, burning puncture wound. Immerse the wound for 30-90 minutes in water as hot as can be tolerated (about 45 C) and seek medical care if pain or infection persists.
Is the Giant squirrelfish edible?
Yes, the Giant 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 Giant squirrelfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Giant squirrelfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.