Large eyes, red scales and a formidable spine suit this reef fish to life after dark.
- Local names
- 'Apa'i
About this species
An oval body, red to orange in colour, big eyes and a red mark behind the eye identify this fish. It belongs to the Holocentridae and is the largest squirrelfish, reaching around 45 cm. A long venomous spine projects from the gill-cover region.
Small fish and crustaceans become its prey after dark. During the day, it can still be seen alone or in groups in the lagoon and along the outer reef slope.
