Hawaiian Squirrelfish

The Hawaiian Squirrelfish is a striking endemic species found exclusively in the waters surrounding the Hawaiian Islands and Johnston Atoll. Its body displays the classic squirrelfish form with vibrant red coloration accented by subtle yellow-gold striping along the lateral scales. Like all members of its family, it possesses large eyes adapted for nocturnal activity and venomous preopercular spines that can inflict painful puncture wounds.

This species inhabits rocky reefs and caves at moderate depths, typically between 15 and 100 feet. During the day it shelters in crevices and overhangs, emerging at night to hunt small crustaceans and zooplankton along the reef face.

In the aquarium, the Hawaiian Squirrelfish requires moderate care and can display semi-aggressive behavior, particularly toward conspecifics and similarly shaped species. It needs ample hiding spots and subdued lighting to feel secure. Its Hawaiian-endemic status makes it a prized specimen for collectors.