Fin's Fish Guide
The North Pacific squirrelfish (Sargocentron spinosissimum) is a saltwater fish of the family Holocentridae that grows up to 18 cm.
Asia: China, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Japan, Ryukyu Is., Korea (South), Hawaii and others
Description
The North Pacific squirrelfish is a squirrelfish (Holocentridae) from rocky and coral-reef water of the northwestern Pacific. The species grows to about 25 cm and has a red-silver body with white lengthwise stripes, large eyes and rough, spiny scales. As a nocturnal fish it shelters in crevices and under overhangs by day and hunts small crustaceans at night. On the gill cover it bears a sharp spine that can give a cut when handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the North Pacific squirrelfish?
The North Pacific squirrelfish has a torpedo-shaped body and is mainly red-orange. Bears sharp spines, plates or strong jaws that can cause cuts or puncture wounds; handle with care.
Where does the North Pacific squirrelfish live?
The North Pacific squirrelfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Asia: China, Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Japan, Ryukyu Is., Korea (South), Hawaii and others
How big does the North Pacific squirrelfish get?
The North Pacific squirrelfish grows to a maximum of about 18 cm.
Is the North Pacific squirrelfish dangerous to humans?
The North Pacific squirrelfish can cause injury; handle it with care. For a puncture or cut from a fin spine: rinse the wound thoroughly with clean water, apply pressure to stop bleeding and remove any visible fragments. Cover and keep clean. For a deep wound, a retained spine or signs of infection see a doctor and check tetanus status.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the North Pacific squirrelfish and live in the same waters.
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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 North Pacific squirrelfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the North Pacific squirrelfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.