Sargocentron diadema is a relatively common squirrelfish, and is likely the most abundant red and white-striped species of Sargocentron found in the Maldives.
Details
§ 01
size
Max. 17 cm
color
Red with narrow silvery white stripes. Spinous portion of dorsal fin deep red to nearly black with a whitish stripe (often disjunct). Silvery white spots or patch on upper caudal peduncle/ posterior part of back.
This species of coral reef is typically found in depths ranging from 2 to 30 meters and tends to form aggregations.
distinctive characters
The dorsal fin has 11 spines and 13-15 (usually 14) rays, the anal fin has 4 spines and 8-9 rays, the pectoral fin rays are 13-15 (usually 14), and the body depth is 2.4-2.9 in standard length. The dorsal profile of the head is slightly convex, the preopercular spine is long, and the membranes between the dorsal spines are strongly incised.