Tailspot Squirrelfish (Holocentrus tailspot)
Fish in the family Holocentridae. Moderate care. Reef Safe.
Quick facts
Appearance
A nocturnal, stocky squirrelfish with a deep crimson-red to orange-red body marked by alternating white stripes running horizontally along the sides. A distinctive dark spot or blotch appears on the tail peduncle (tailspot), and the dorsal and anal fins display spiny anterior rays with white margins. Large, reflective eyes are characteristic of this nocturnal species.
Diet and feeding
Feed small meaty foods including finely chopped seafood, small crustaceans, mysid shrimp, and quality carnivore pellets. Offer foods appropriate to the fish's small mouth size. Feed 1–2 times daily with portions the fish can consume within a few minutes.
Difficulty and care for the Tailspot Squirrelfish
Moderate - Tailspot Squirrelfish requires standard marine aquarium maintenance and intermediate fish keeping skills.
Common health issues
Marine Ich, Fin Rot, Swim Bladder Disease, Bacterial Infections, Parasitic Infestations
Origin and habitat
Indo-Pacific region, including the Red Sea, East Africa, and extending east to the Hawaiian Islands and Tuamotu Archipelago. Found on coral and rocky reefs at depths typically between 20–200 meters.
Log Tailspot Squirrelfish in your reef tank
Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Tailspot Squirrelfish alongside everything else in your reef.