Description

Also known as Pinecone Soldierfish, Seychelles Soldierfish.

Found during the day, sheltering in caves, and beneath overhangs, dispersing at night foraging for food, over coral and rocky reefs. Colour varies with light.
They feed nocturnally on zooplankton.
Length - 23cm
Depth - 2-21m
Widespread Western Indian Ocean

Soldierfish are nocturnal hunters feeding in the water column on zooplankton. During the day they often congregate close to reefs and in caves, sometimes found upside down in caves.
They can often be heard by divers with their pops, grunts and clicks.
Their colour can change greatly in different lights and if threatened.
Some soldierfish have venomous spines. Ref: https://www.fishbase.se/summary/7823