Sargocentron Diadema (The Crown Squirrelfish)

Overview

• Native to the Indo-Pacific, commonly found in coral reefs, rocky overhangs, and coastal lagoons.
• Easily recognized by its bright red body, white horizontal stripes, and large, reflective eyes.
• A nocturnal species that remains hidden during the day and becomes more active at night.
• Has a peaceful temperament but may show slight territorial behavior around its chosen hiding spots.
• Best suited for aquariums with ample caves, rock formations, and subdued lighting.

Feeding

• Carnivorous, primarily feeding on small crustaceans, worms, and zooplankton in the wild.
• Thrives on a diet of frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, finely chopped seafood, and high-quality marine pellets.
• Readily accepts prepared foods but benefits from occasional live food supplementation.
• Should be fed in the evening or at night to mimic natural feeding habits.
• A varied diet ensures proper nutrition, strong immune function, and vibrant coloration.

Habitat

• Prefers reef-associated environments with shaded areas and rock crevices for hiding.
• Frequently found in caves or under ledges during daylight hours, emerging at night to forage.
• Aquarium setups should include live rock structures to provide shelter and security.
• Requires stable water parameters and a high-quality filtration system to maintain water quality.
• Providing dim lighting or shaded regions helps support its nocturnal nature.

Fish Care

• Optimal water temperature: 74-80°F (23-27°C) to support overall health.
• Preferred pH range: 8.1-8.4, with a salinity level of 1.020-1.025.
• Requires regular water changes and consistent maintenance to prevent stress-related illnesses.
• Reef-safe but may consume very small ornamental shrimp and delicate invertebrates.
• Providing a structured environment with hiding spots helps reduce stress and encourage natural behaviors.

Compatibility

• Generally peaceful but may become territorial around its preferred hiding places.
• Compatible with clownfish, tangs, wrasses, and other reef-safe species.
• Should not be housed with highly aggressive fish that may harass or stress it.
• Best kept in tanks where it has adequate hiding spaces and is not outcompeted for food.
• Providing a well-structured aquarium with sufficient caves minimizes territorial disputes.

Aquarium Behavior

• A nocturnal species, often seen hiding in rock crevices or under coral ledges during the day.
• Frequently emerges at night to actively forage for food.
• More confident in a well-established aquarium with plenty of secure hiding areas.
• Providing a dimly lit environment encourages natural behaviors and minimizes stress.
• Over time, it may become accustomed to its caretaker and recognize feeding routines.