Red Squirrelfish

Overview

The Red Squirrelfish, also known as the redcoat, is a nocturnal, reef-associated fish characterized by its striking red and silvery-white striped pattern. It is widely distributed across the Indo-West Pacific and has successfully established populations in the eastern Mediterranean following its migration through the Suez Canal.

Appearance

This species has an oblong, moderately compressed body with large eyes and rough, ctenoid scales. Its coloration consists of alternating longitudinal stripes of brownish-red and silvery-white. The dorsal fin features 11 spines, with the spinous portion displaying a dark red color and a distinct row of whitish, quadrangular blotches. A key identifying feature is the presence of a stout, venomous spine at the lower corner of the preoperculum, which is roughly equal to the diameter of the eye.

Distribution & habitat

The Red Squirrelfish is found from the Red Sea and eastern Africa to the western Pacific, including Japan, New Caledonia, and Australia. It typically inhabits coastal reefs, silty environments, and sheltered areas like bays, harbors, and lagoons. During the day, it remains hidden in caves and rock crevices, often in areas with strong currents.

Biology & behavior

As a nocturnal predator, it emerges at night to hunt. It is known to be solitary or found in small aggregations. Its diet consists primarily of benthic crustaceans, such as crabs and shrimps, though it may also consume small fish, polychaetes, and molluscs. Spawning occurs during the summer months, producing pelagic eggs and larvae that develop long head spines before settling into rocky habitats.