Sargocentron xantherythrum, commonly known as the Hawaiian squirrelfish or striped squirrelfish, is a member of the
squirrelfish family that is endemic to the
Hawaiian Islands. Growing to a length of 17 centimeters (6.7 in), the fish has a red coloration with white stripes running along the body, as well as sharp gill spines and rough scales that can cause the fish to be snagged in netting materials. It is a
nocturnal species that is much more active at night. It inhabits seaward reefs below the surge zone, and is common near caves and ledges, feeding mainly on worms, crustaceans and starfish. It occasionally makes its way into the
aquarium trade. This school of
S. xantherythrum was photographed in the
French Frigate Shoals, part of the
Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument in
Hawaii.
Photograph credit: James Watt