Sand Perch, often called Squirrelfish, are found in waters up to about 300 feet deep though primarily in warm inshore waters. They are often found on wrecks, particularly in deeper water. Fish live in holes or burrows that are either pre-existing or excavated by the fish. They are territorial fish and as they grow larger are able to defend larger territories. They feed primarily on crustaceans as well as small fish found near the bottom.