Squirrelfish

Squirrelfish are nocturnal hunters with large eyes, red colouration, and prominent spines on their gill covers. They reach around 60 cm and shelter in caves and under ledges during the day, becoming active at dusk to feed on small fish and crustaceans. Divers often spot them in shadowy reef crevices or hovering near wreck openings, sometimes in loose aggregations. They produce audible squeaking or grunting sounds—unusual for reef fish and a useful identifier in low-light conditions.