Holocentridae is a family of ray-finned fish, belonging to the order Beryciformes with the members of the subfamily Holocentrinae typically known as squirrelfish, while the members of Myripristinae typically are known as soldierfish. In Hawaii, they are known as menpachi.
They are found in tropical parts of the Indian, Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, with the greatest species richness near reefs in the Indo-Pacific. Most are found at depths from the shoreline to 100 m (330 ft), but some, notably the members of the genus Ostichthys, are generally found far deeper. Being largely or entirely nocturnal, they have relatively large eyes. During the day, they typically remain hidden in crevices, caves, or under ledges. Red and silvery colours dominate. The preopercle spines (near the gill opening) of the members of the subfamily Holocentrinae are venomous, and can give painful wounds. Most have a maximum length of 15â€"35 cm (6â€"14 in), but Sargocentron iota barely reaches 8 cm (3 in), and S. spiniferum and Holocentrus adscensionis can reach more than 50 cm (19.5 in). The squirrelfishes mainly feed on small fishes and benthic invertebrates, while the soldierfishes typically feed on zooplankton. The larvae are pelagic, unlike the adults, and can be found far out to sea.
References
- Luczkovich, JJ; Keusenkothen, M (2007). "Behavior and Sound Production by Longspine Squirrelfish Holocentrus rufus During Playback of Predator and Conspecific Sounds.". In: NW Pollock and JM Godfrey (Eds.) the Diving for Science…2007. Dauphin Island, Ala.: American Academy of Underwater Sciences. Proceedings of the American Academy of Underwater Sciences (Twentyâ€"sixth annual Scientific Diving Symposium). ISBN 0-9800423-1-3. Retrieved 2008-06-14.Â
External links
- Holocentridae at the Encyclopedia of Life
