Redcoat Squirrelfish
Sargocentron rubrum
The Redcoat, often referred to as a Squirrelfish or Soldierfish, is a visually striking fish with a vibrant red colour. It is a Lessepsian migrant that entered the Mediterranean from the Red Sea via the Suez Canal. Its body is robust and covered with hard, rough scales characterised by horizontal white stripes that contrast sharply against the red background. Its most prominent feature is its exceptionally large eyes, a clear adaptation to its nocturnal lifestyle.
⚠️ Safety warning
The Redcoat has a very strong, venomous spine on its cheek, specifically at the edge of the operculum (gill cover). A sting from this spine is extremely painful and causes significant swelling. Great care is required when handling this fish or removing a hook. If stung, immediately submerge the affected area in very hot water at approximately 45°C to 50°C for 30 to 90 minutes, as the venom is heat-sensitive. Ice or cold water will not help and may worsen the pain.
First aid
The venom of the Redcoat is broken down by heat. If you are stung, the only solution for immediate relief is to place the affected area in very hot water at approximately 45°C to 50°C for 30 to 90 minutes. Ice or cold water will not help and may make the pain worse.
Habitat
It lives exclusively on rocky seabeds, typically at depths ranging from 2 to 60 metres. During the day, it hides deep within caves, holes, and rock crevices, often sharing these dark shelters with other nocturnal species.
Diet
As soon as darkness falls, the Redcoat emerges from its hiding spot to hunt. It is an active nocturnal predator feeding primarily on small crabs, shrimp, and worms found on the seabed. Its large eyes allow it to detect the movement of prey even in very low light conditions.
Reproduction
Reproduction occurs during the warm summer months. The spawning season typically begins in June and concludes in late August when water temperatures are at their highest.
Fisheries
It is usually caught incidentally in nets and longlines set near rocks as well as by recreational anglers using handlines. Its commercial value is very low. Although its meat is white and flavourful, it is full of bones and covered in hard scales. These factors, combined with the risk of stings from its dangerous spines, lead most fishermen to avoid it.
Research
Research in the Mediterranean indicates that the Redcoat has fully adapted to its new environment. Scientists have observed that it reaches sexual maturity very quickly, at just 14 centimetres, which facilitates rapid population growth. Furthermore, it appears to coexist peacefully in the same caves as the native Mediterranean Cardinalfish without aggressive competition, suggesting an ecological balance. The venom has been studied and confirmed to cause intense pain rated 8 to 10 on a pain scale, but it is not considered life-threatening.