Fin's Fish Guide
The Tinsel squirrelfish (Sargocentron suborbitale) is a saltwater fish of the family Holocentridae that grows up to 25 cm.
North America: Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Galapagos Is., El Salvador, Guatemala and others
Description
The tinsel squirrelfish is a nocturnal reef fish (Holocentridae) from the Indo-Pacific and eastern Pacific. The species grows to about 25 cm and has a red body with silvery longitudinal stripes, large eyes and sharp, backward-pointing spines on the gill cover. By day it shelters in caves and crevices of coral and rocky reefs; at night it hunts small crustaceans and worms. The fish is harmless to humans, though the head spines can prick.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Tinsel squirrelfish?
The Tinsel squirrelfish has a torpedo-shaped body.
Where does the Tinsel squirrelfish live?
The Tinsel squirrelfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. North America: Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Galapagos Is., El Salvador, Guatemala and others
How big does the Tinsel squirrelfish get?
The Tinsel squirrelfish grows to a maximum of about 25 cm. On average the species is around 15 cm.
Is the Tinsel squirrelfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Tinsel squirrelfish 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.
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 Tinsel squirrelfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Tinsel squirrelfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.