Species Description…

Scientific Name: Sargocentron xantherythrum

Common Name: Hawaiian Squirrelfish

Species Group: Squirrelfish

Habitat: Reef Safe with Caution

Care Level: Intermediate

Temperament: Semi-aggressive

Diet Type: Carnivore

Role in Aquarium: Showpiece Fish

Max Fish Length: 6 (inches)

Min Aquarium Size: 70 (gallons)

Native Range: Central and Western Pacific, particularly around Hawaii

Sargocentron Xantherythrum - The Hawaiian Squirrelfish

Sargocentron Xantherythrum (The Hawaiian Squirrelfish)

Native to the central Pacific, particularly around the Hawaiian Islands, commonly found in coral reefs and rocky ledges.
Recognized for its deep red coloration, white stripes, and large, dark eyes adapted for nocturnal vision.
A nocturnal species that remains hidden in caves and crevices during the day and becomes more active at night.
Generally peaceful but may show mild territorial behavior, especially around its preferred hiding spots.
Best suited for aquariums with live rock formations, caves, and subdued lighting to support its natural behavior.

Carnivorous, primarily feeding on small crustaceans, zooplankton, and marine worms in the wild.
Thrives on a diet of frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, chopped seafood, and high-quality marine pellets.
Readily accepts prepared foods but benefits from occasional live food offerings to stimulate natural hunting behaviors.
Best fed in the evening or at night to align with its nocturnal feeding habits.
A varied diet enhances its vibrant coloration and supports overall health.

Prefers reef-associated environments with shaded areas and rock crevices for shelter.
Often found in caves or under ledges during the day, emerging at night to hunt.
Aquarium setups should include live rock structures to create natural hiding spots.
Requires stable water parameters and strong filtration to maintain water quality.
Providing dim lighting or shaded regions helps reduce stress and encourage natural behaviors.

Optimal water temperature: 74-80°F (23-27°C) to maintain metabolic stability.
Preferred pH range: 8.1-8.4, with a salinity level of 1.020-1.025.
Requires regular water changes and high-quality filtration to prevent stress-related illnesses.
Reef-safe but may prey on very small ornamental shrimp and delicate invertebrates.
Providing plenty of rockwork and hiding spaces reduces stress and encourages natural behavior.

Generally peaceful but can be territorial around its chosen shelter areas.
Compatible with tangs, wrasses, and other non-aggressive reef-safe species.
Should not be housed with highly aggressive fish that may harass or outcompete it.
Best suited for tanks with ample hiding spots to reduce territorial disputes.
Providing structured rockwork helps ensure all tankmates have their own spaces.

A nocturnal species that spends daylight hours hiding and emerges at night to explore.
Frequently seen darting between rock crevices in search of food.
More confident in a well-established aquarium with secure hiding areas.
Providing dim lighting or moonlights encourages nighttime activity and foraging.
Over time, it may become accustomed to its caretaker and exhibit recognition during feeding sessions.