Fin's Fish Guide
The Samurai squirrelfish (Sargocentron ittodai) is a saltwater fish of the family Holocentridae that grows up to 20 cm.
Oceania: Australia, Solomon Is., Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Christmas I., Comoros, Mayotte and others
Description
The samurai squirrelfish is a squirrelfish (Holocentridae) from shallow coral-reef water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 17 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 Samurai squirrelfish?
The Samurai 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 Samurai squirrelfish live?
The Samurai squirrelfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: Australia, Solomon Is., Taiwan/Ch Taipei, Christmas I., Comoros, Mayotte and others
How big does the Samurai squirrelfish get?
The Samurai squirrelfish grows to a maximum of about 20 cm.
Is the Samurai squirrelfish dangerous to humans?
The Samurai 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.
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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 Samurai squirrelfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Samurai squirrelfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.