Reef squirrelfish
📖 Overview
Inhabit sandy, rocky and coral bottoms . More common on seaward reefs than on protected reefs. Retreat into recesses when alarmed . Nocturnal . Secretive, found deep in crevices between branches of live corals . Oviparous, with planktonic eggs and larvae .
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal spines (total): 11; Dorsal soft rays (total): 12; Anal spines: 4; Anal soft rays: 8. Body slender, sides compressed. Snout spinules prominent, spine extending into the posterior narial opening. White stripes on upper sides narrow, separated by broader dark bands . Body with alternate stripes of red and silvery white; spinous dorsal fin red, white at tips, with a large black spot between the first 3 or 4 spines .: fusiform / normal.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Reef squirrelfish is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
Diet information for Reef squirrelfish is currently being compiled.
🥚 Reproduction
Reproduction data for Reef squirrelfish is currently being compiled.
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; reef-associated; depth range 1 - 30 m , usually ? - 22 m . Tropical; 33°N - 7°N, 99°W - 58°W South America.
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🍽️ Edibility & Flavour
"Neoniphon Coruscum is an edible species."
- Clear, bright eyes — cloudy eyes indicate age
- Firm flesh that springs back when pressed
- Fresh ocean smell, never strong or ammonia-like
- Bright red or pink gills, not grey or brown
- Shiny, moist skin with scales tightly attached
- Cloudy or sunken eyes
- Strong fishy or ammonia odour
- Soft, mushy flesh that doesn't spring back
- Discoloured or dry flesh
⚡ Nutrition
Per 100g cooked — Source: USDA FoodData Central
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Protein | 18.6 g |
| Omega-3 (total) | 151 mg |
🔬 Mercury Safety
Mercury data for Reef squirrelfish has not yet been assigned. Please consult FDA/EPA guidance for general seafood safety advice.
🌿 Sustainability
🔍 Similar Species
👥 Community & Contribute
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