Spotfin Squirrelfish
Neoniphon sammara
Spotfin Squirrelfish (Neoniphon sammara) is a reef-associated nocturnal squirrelfish of the Indo-Pacific and Red Sea, widely reported from coral and rocky reefs. It hides by day and feeds at night on small fish and crustaceans.
Identification points
- Bright red to orange body with a strongly forked tail
- Prominent pale/yellow spot at the base of the dorsal fin
- Large eyes and spiny first dorsal fin typical of squirrelfish
Habitat
Shallow coral and rocky reefs, reef slopes, and lagoon drop-offs; usually shelters in caves, ledges, and crevices by day and forages just off the bottom at night.
Bait notes
Not a common sport target; it may take small cut bait, shrimp, squid strips, or tiny jigs fished near reef structure at night.
Behavior
Nocturnal predator that emerges after dark to hunt small fishes and crustaceans. Often sits in shaded reef structure during the day and may form loose aggregations.
Caution
Sharp spines on the dorsal fin can puncture hands. It is a reef fish, so do not rely on it as a routine food fish; local regulations and reef-fish consumption advisories may apply.
Fishing notes
Fish after dusk around reef edges, drop-offs, and cave mouths with light tackle and small natural baits. Keep presentations close to structure; expect short, sharp strikes.