Fin's Fish Guide
The Red Roman (Corniger spinosus) is a saltwater fish of the family Holocentridae that grows up to 20 cm.
Description
The spinyfish is a squirrelfish relative from the western Atlantic. The species grows to about 20 cm and has a deep, red body with large eyes and conspicuously heavy, spiny bony ridges on the head and strong fin spines. As a nocturnal fish it shelters by day in crevices and caves of deeper reef, between about 45 and 275 metres, and hunts crustaceans and small fish at night. The fin spines can prick. The fish is otherwise harmless to humans. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Red Roman?
The Red Roman has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a plain pattern. Heavy spiny head ridges and large eyes; nocturnal deeper-reef soldierfish
Where does the Red Roman live?
The Red Roman lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Western Atlantic
How big does the Red Roman get?
The Red Roman grows to a maximum of about 20 cm.
Is the Red Roman dangerous to humans?
No, the Red Roman is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Red Roman edible?
The Red Roman is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Holocentridae
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