How to Identify Deepwater Squirrelfish

To identify Deepwater Squirrelfish (Sargocentron macrosquamis), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Predominantly reddish-orange to red dorsally, fading to silvery-white ventrally. Often exhibits faint horizontal stripes or rows of spots along the flanks. Fins are typically reddish, sometimes with white margins. The operculum (gill cover) often has a dark spot.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Large eyes, characteristic of nocturnal fish., Prominent, spiny dorsal fin., Large, ctenoid scales., A sharp spine on the preopercle (bone below the eye).

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin, deeply notched, with 11 spines followed by 12-14 soft rays. The spiny portion is significantly longer than the soft-rayed portion.

Tail fin

Moderately forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins are relatively short and rounded, with 13-15 rays.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin with 4 spines and 8-9 soft rays. The third anal spine is typically the longest and strongest.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Coloration

   Look for the reddish-orange body with silvery undertones and potentially faint horizontal lines. The dark spot on the operculum is a good indicator.

2. 2

   Scales

   Observe the relatively large, rough (ctenoid) scales, which are a key characteristic of squirrelfish.

3. 3

   Dorsal Fin

   Note the deeply notched dorsal fin with a prominent spiny anterior portion.

4. 4

   Preopercular Spine

   Identify the sharp, strong spine on the lower margin of the preopercle, a common feature in Holocentridae.

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