Common name: Grannyfish
General information
The Redspotted Hawkfish, scientifically known as Amblycirrhitus pinos, is a small, colorful fish that is popular among saltwater aquarium enthusiasts. It is known for its distinctive red spots and inquisitive nature. Hawkfish in general are benthic predators, often found perching on coral branches or rockwork, waiting to pounce on small prey such as crustaceans or worms.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 114 liter (30 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.022 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 22 to 26 °C (72 to 79 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 9 cm (3½″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Prefers live rock with hiding spots
- Diet
- Carnivore Enjoys mysis, brine shrimp
- Social
- Solo Can be territorial, best kept alone
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive May nip at small fish or inverts
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerciformesPerciformes
- FamilyHawkfishesCirrhitidae
- GenusHawkfishAmblycirrhitus
- SpeciesGrannyfishAmblycirrhitus pinos (Mowbray, 1927)
- SynonymsPseudocirrhites pinos Mowbray, 1927
Care
Redspotted Hawkfish are relatively hardy and can be a good choice for both novice and experienced aquarists. They require an aquarium with plenty of live rock for perching and hiding. These fish are known to jump, so a tight-fitting lid is essential to prevent escape. They can be aggressive towards smaller tank mates and should not be kept with small shrimp or other small invertebrates that could become prey.
Reproduction
In the home aquarium, breeding Redspotted Hawkfish can be challenging. They are not commonly bred in captivity, and little is known about their reproductive habits in the wild. If attempting to breed, a separate breeding tank with a controlled environment would be necessary.
Habitat
Amblycirrhitus pinos is native to the tropical Western Atlantic, including Florida, the Bahamas, and the Caribbean Sea. They are typically found in shallow reefs and rocky areas, often at depths ranging from 1 to 30 meters.