Sargocentron diadema | L

Sargocentron diadema, commonly known as the diadem squirrelfish, is a captivating addition to mature marine aquariums. This large squirrelfish displays vivid red hues with a distinctive white diadem-like marking on its head, making it a visually striking specimen.

As a nocturnal predator, it is most active during the evening and night, feeding primarily on small crustaceans and other meaty foods. It requires a well-established aquarium with plenty of rockwork and caves to provide adequate hiding places during daylight hours.

Care Recommendations:

• Tank Size: Minimum 150 litres to accommodate its active swimming and territorial behaviour.
• Temperament: Generally peaceful but may show mild territoriality towards conspecifics or similar species.
• Diet: Carnivorous; feed a varied diet of frozen or live meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood.
• Compatibility: Suitable with other peaceful to semi-aggressive fish; avoid very small fish or invertebrates that may be seen as prey.
• Reef Safety: With caution – may prey on small invertebrates, so not fully reef safe.

Maintain stable water parameters typical of a tropical marine environment: temperature 24-27°C, salinity 1.023-1.025 SG, pH 8.1-8.4. Moderate water flow and subdued lighting mimic its natural crevice-dwelling habitat.

Overall, the Sargocentron diadema is a rewarding species for aquarists with some marine experience, offering nocturnal activity and a splash of colour to the aquarium.