Violet Soldierfish
NameViolet Soldierfish
Scientific NameMyripristis violacea
Common NamesViolet Soldierfish, Violet Squirrelfish
FamilyHolocentridae
OriginIndo-Pacific, Red Sea, East Africa, Japan, Australia
Temperamentsemi-aggressive
Dietcarnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)125
Max Size (Inches)10
Water TypeSaltwater
Temperature Range (°F)72-78
pH Range8.1-8.4
Compatible SpeciesTangs, Angelfish, Hawkfish, Large Gobies, Other peaceful to semi-aggressive fish of similar size
Description
The Violet Soldierfish is a nocturnal, large-eyed marine fish known for its reddish-silver body and often violet-tinged fins. It typically inhabits coral reefs, hiding in caves and crevices during the day and emerging at night to feed on zooplankton and small crustaceans. While generally peaceful, it can be territorial towards conspecifics in smaller aquarium settings.
