Falco Hawkfish

Falco Hawkfish (Cirrhitichthys falco)

Quick Stats:

• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive
• Color Form: White to pinkish body with reddish-brown blotches and vertical stripes
• Diet: Carnivore
• Reef Compatible: With Caution
• Water Conditions:
  • Specific Gravity: 1.020–1.025
  • Temperature: 72–78°F
  • dKH: 8–12
  • pH: 8.1–8.4
• Max. Size: 3 inches
• Family: Cirrhitidae
• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons

Overview:

The Falco Hawkfish is a small but bold and active species known for its quirky personality and unique perching behavior. Its body is adorned with reddish blotches and vertical stripes, making it an attractive addition to marine tanks. This hawkfish is perfect for aquarists looking for an easy-to-care-for, entertaining fish.

Habitat and Behavior:

Native to coral reefs across the Indo-Pacific, the Falco Hawkfish spends much of its time perched on rocks or corals, scanning for food or observing its environment. It is semi-aggressive and may harass smaller, slow-moving tankmates, so careful consideration is required when selecting tankmates.

Diet:

As a carnivore, the Falco Hawkfish thrives on a diet of meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, krill, and chopped seafood. It will also accept high-quality frozen or pellet foods formulated for marine carnivores. Regular feedings (1-2 times daily) will help maintain its energy and vibrant coloration.

Care Tips:

While the Falco Hawkfish is relatively hardy, it’s important to provide plenty of rock structures and perches within the tank. They are known jumpers, so a secure tank lid is essential. Though they are reef-safe in many cases, they may pose a threat to small shrimp and other invertebrates, so monitor their behavior carefully.