Squirrelfishes and Soldierfishes

Squirrelfishes and Soldierfishes in Hawaii

Squirrelfishes and soldierfishes are red reef fish with large eyes, forked tails and spiny body parts. Their big eyes help them see in low light, which is useful because many hide during the day and become more active at night.

In Hawaii, squirrelfishes are called 'ala'ihi, while soldierfishes are called 'u'u. About 19 species from this family live in Hawaiian waters. Some stay on shallow reefs, while others live deeper.

Daytime Hiding and Night Hunting

During the day, these fish often tuck themselves under ledges, inside caves or into reef crevices. Their red color can look darker in shaded water, helping them stay less noticeable.

At night, they move out to feed on small reef animals such as crustaceans and other invertebrates. Night divers may see them more active than daytime snorkelers do.

How to Tell Them Apart

Squirrelfishes often have silver horizontal stripes and backward-pointing spines on the gill covers. Soldierfishes usually have deeper bodies, rounder snouts and fewer obvious stripes.

Both groups can make sounds when disturbed. Squirrelfishes may click, while soldierfishes may grunt. When watching them, avoid reaching into holes or chasing fish out of shelter. Related pages include the Hawaii fish guide, bigeyes, eels, scorpionfishes and Hawaii snorkeling tours.