(Source: thoughtco.com) The pinecone fish (Monocentris japonica) is also known as the pineapple fish, knightfish, soldierfish, Japanese pineapple fish, and dick bride-groom fish. Its distinctive markings leave no doubt as to how it got its name pinecone or pineapple fish...it looks a little like both and is easy to spot. Have you ever seen a pinecone fish before this survey?

Pinecone fish grow to a maximum size of about 7 inches, but are usually 4 to 5 inches in length. The pinecone fish is bright yellow in color with distinctive, black-outlined scales. They also have a black lower jaw and a small tail. Curiously, they have a light-producing organ on each side of their head. These are known as photophores, and they produce a symbiotic bacteria that makes the light visible. The light is produced by luminescent bacteria, and its function is not known. Some say that it may be used to improve vision, find prey or communicate with other fish. Can you mention any other fish that can produce light?

The pinecone fish are found in the Indo-West Pacific Ocean, including in the Red Sea, around South Africa and Mauritius, Indonesia, Southern Japan, New Zealand, and Australia. They prefer areas with coral reefs, caves, and rocks. They are commonly found in waters between 65 to 656 feet (20 to 200 meters) deep. They may be found swimming together in schools. Would you like to visit the areas where this fish lives?

Pinecone fish are popular in tropical aquariums because of its unique appearance. Despite that popularity, the pinecone fish is known to be hard to keep. They eat live brine shrimp and are more active at night. During the day, they tend to hide more. They are usually a yellow or orange color with scales outlined in black. Would you like to have them in a home aquarium?