Description

• Scientific Name: Cirrhitichthys oxycephalus
• Common Names: Coral Hawkfish, Pixy Hawkfish, Spotted Hawkfish
• Maximum Length: 3.9 inches (10 cm)
• Minimum Aquarium Size: 30 gallons (113 liters) for a single fish; 50 gallons (189 liters) or larger for pairs to support their territorial behavior and perching needs.
• Foods and Feeding Habits: Carnivorous, feeding on small crustaceans and fish in the wild. In aquariums, offer frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, or high-quality marine pellets. Feed small amounts 1-2 times daily to match their predatory habits.
• Reef Safety: Reef-safe with caution; they may eat small ornamental shrimp or tiny fish but leave corals unharmed. Monitor in reef tanks with small inhabitants.
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive, territorial toward similar hawkfish or small tankmates. Best kept singly or in pairs with ample perching spots and non-aggressive companions like gobies or wrasses.
• Description: The Coral Hawkfish is a captivating addition to marine tanks, valued for its vibrant look and watchful nature. Its oval body varies from pale pink to white with red-orange to grey blotches, featuring spots on the face, dorsal fin, and tail. Native to the Indo-Pacific, from the Red Sea to the Marquesan Islands, they perch on coral reefs at depths of 1-40 meters, often among branching corals. Hobbyists note their bold perching on live rock, requiring a tight lid to prevent jumping. Their hardy nature makes them a favorite, though they may dominate smaller tankmates.

Fun Facts:

• Lacking a swim bladder, they rest motionlessly on corals, using strong pelvic fins to anchor like a tripod for stability.
• In the wild, they ambush prey with a sudden burst from their perch, striking like a hawk with pinpoint accuracy.
• Their cirri-fringed nostrils help detect water currents, aiding in spotting prey in turbulent reef environments.