Fin's Fish Guide
The Pink squirrelfish (Sargocentron tiereoides) is a saltwater fish of the family Holocentridae that grows up to 20 cm.
Description
The pink squirrelfish is a squirrelfish from the Indo-Pacific, from East Africa to the Society Islands. The species grows to about 20 cm and has a red-pink body with silvery-white longitudinal stripes and large eyes. It is nocturnal and shelters by day in crevices and caves of coral reefs; at night it hunts bottom crabs and shrimp. On the gill cover it bears a venomous spine that can give a painful sting when handled. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Pink squirrelfish?
The Pink squirrelfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Large eyes; nocturnal; venomous opercular spine
Where does the Pink squirrelfish live?
The Pink squirrelfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific
How big does the Pink squirrelfish get?
The Pink squirrelfish grows to a maximum of about 20 cm.
Is the Pink squirrelfish dangerous to humans?
The Pink squirrelfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. The fin spines are venomous and give a very painful sting. Immerse the injured area in water as hot as tolerable (about 45 C) for 30-90 minutes to break down the venom, remove spine fragments, clean the wound and seek medical help for a severe reaction.
Is the Pink squirrelfish edible?
The Pink squirrelfish is rarely eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Pink 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 Pink squirrelfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Pink squirrelfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.