Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: With Caution
General Description: The Clearfin Squirrelfish has a large distribution across the Indo-Pacific, from Africa toward Australia and Micronesia. A hardy fish, Squirrelfish add a unique element to the aquarium with their unusual body shape, coloration and behavior. The Clearfin squirrel has an overall shimmery silver-white body with thin red horizontal stripes. The edges of the caudal, adipose and anal fins are bright red and yellow. Very similar in appearance to the Bloodspot Squirrelfish (Neoniphon sammara), except that in the front of the doral fin, when erect, the Bloodspot Squirrel has a large black spot that can be seen. The temperament of a Clearfin squirrel is somewhat shy, at least at first, and rather peaceful making them a versatile addition to active fish only with live rock aquariums. Squirrelfish are best maintained in small groups of at least three or more individuals. An adult Clearfin squirrel can reach a size of approximately 9″. The availability of Clearfin squirrelfish is infrequent, making them somewhat rare compared to other squirrelfish and soldierfish species in the aquarium trade. Note: Care should be taken when netting a Clearfin squirrelfish, as they have sharp spines on their head, gills and dorsal fin that can easily get entangled. Squirrelfish also have large and somewhat sensitive eyes that could be damaged by a net; it is best to transfer these fish using a plastic container.
Diet Requirements: Clearfin squirrelfish are carnivores. A diet consisting of various proteins and frozen foods such as brine shrimp, squid, mysis shrimp, chopped fish and other larger mixed saltwater preparations will maintain optimal health, immune function and coloration.
Care Requirements: A minimum 125 gallon aquarium is ideal for a single or group of small Clearfin squirrelfish; larger specimens will require more space. Clearfin squirrelfish require generous live rock in the aquarium, especially caves and ledges to hang out in or beneath. Over time, your Clearfin squirrel may become bolder and spend more time in the open. Clearfin squirrelfish rarely conflict with tank mates, but could be territorial about sharing a dwelling it has claimed or some tussels may be observed among Clearfin squirrefishes as they determine their pecking order. Squirrelfish will not bother coral in a reef aquarium, but are a threat to shrimp that will fit in their mouths. A Clearfin squirrel should not be kept with overly aggressive tank mates in order to thrive, or at least added well before such species in order to allow it time to settle in. Compatability with other squirrelfish or soldierfish species is variable and environment dependent. Recommended water conditions, 72-78° F, KH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025.
Purchase Size: Small: 1” to 2″; Medium: 2″ to 3”
Note: Your item may not look identical to the image provided due to variation within species. Purchase sizes are approximate.