How to Identify Redcoat Squirrelfish

To identify Redcoat Squirrelfish (Sargocentron rubrum), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Predominantly red to reddish-orange, often with silvery-white longitudinal stripes or spots. The fins are typically reddish, with the dorsal fin often having white tips on the spines and rays. The operculum (gill cover) often has a dark blotch.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Large eyes, characteristic of nocturnal fish., Strongly serrated preopercular spine (spine on the gill cover)., A prominent dark blotch on the operculum., Often exhibits 6-8 faint silvery-white longitudinal stripes along the body.

Dorsal fin

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

Tail fin

Moderately forked caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

14-15 pectoral fin rays.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin with 4 spines and 8-10 soft rays. Pelvic fins with 1 spine and 7 soft rays. All fin spines are sharp and can inflict painful wounds.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Coloration and Pattern

   Look for the overall reddish body color, often with faint silvery stripes. The dark blotch on the operculum is a key identifier.

2. 2

   Spines

   Note the prominent, sharp preopercular spine and the spiny dorsal fin. These are characteristic of squirrelfish.

3. 3

   Eyes

   The large eyes are indicative of its nocturnal habits.

4. 4

   Fin Ray Counts

   For precise identification, count the dorsal fin spines (11) and soft rays (12-14), and anal fin spines (4) and soft rays (8-10).

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