Hawkfish

Hawkfish are a popular choice among reefkeepers due to their vibrant colors, interesting behavior, and relatively hardy nature. Belonging to the family Cirrhitidae, hawkfish are named for their habit of perching on corals and rocks, similar to how a hawk perches on a tree branch. This behavior allows them to survey their surroundings and quickly dart out to catch prey. They are known for their distinctive, elongated pectoral fins which they use to anchor themselves in place. Hawkfish are generally small to medium-sized, making them suitable for various tank sizes.

One of the key traits of hawkfish is their predatory nature. They primarily feed on small crustaceans and other invertebrates, so it's essential to consider tank mates carefully. While they are generally peaceful towards other fish, they can be aggressive towards smaller, more passive species and invertebrates. This makes them a better fit for fish-only or carefully planned reef tanks.

Hawkfish are relatively easy to care for, making them a good choice for both beginner and experienced aquarists. They are hardy and can tolerate a range of water conditions, although they thrive best in stable, well-maintained environments with plenty of hiding spots and perching areas. They are also known to be quite resilient to diseases compared to more delicate fish species.

In terms of species, some of the most popular hawkfish in the aquarium trade include the Neocirrhites armatus, Oxycirrhites typus, and the Paracirrhites arcatus. Each of these species has its own unique coloration and behavior, adding variety and interest to any marine aquarium.

Overall, hawkfish are a vibrant and dynamic addition to a saltwater aquarium, offering both visual appeal and engaging behavior. However, their predatory nature and specific dietary needs require careful consideration when choosing tank mates and planning the aquarium setup.

1. Common name: Twospot hawkfish

   Scientific name: Amblycirrhitus bimacula
2. 
   Common name: Grannyfish

   Scientific name: Amblycirrhitus pinos
3. 
   Common name: Boar hawkfish

   Scientific name: Cirrhitichthys aprinus
4. 
   Common name: golden curlyfin

   Scientific name: Cirrhitichthys aureus
5. 
   Common name: Peacock Hind

   Scientific name: Cirrhitichthys bleekeri
6. Common name: Spottedtail hawkfish

   Scientific name: Cirrhitichthys calliurus
7. 
   Common name: Dwarf hawkfish

   Scientific name: Cirrhitichthys falco
8. 
   Common name: Cave hawkfish

   Scientific name: Cirrhitichthys guichenoti
9. 
   Common name: Coral hawkfish

   Scientific name: Cirrhitichthys oxycephalus
10. 
    Common name: ringed hawkfish

    Scientific name: Cirrhitops fasciatus
11. 
    Common name: Redspotted Hawkfish

    Scientific name: Cirrhitops hubbardi
12. Common name: West African hawkfish

    Scientific name: Cirrhitus atlanticus
13. 
    Common name: Stocky hawkfish

    Scientific name: Cirrhitus pinnulatus
14. 
    Common name: Giant hawkfish

    Scientific name: Cirrhitus rivulatus
15. 
    Common name: Swallowtail hawkfish

    Scientific name: Cyprinocirrhites polyactis
16. Common name: Wilhelm's hawkfish

    Scientific name: Itycirrhitus wilhelmi
17. 
    Common name: Flame hawkfish

    Scientific name: Neocirrhites armatus
18. 
    Common name: Rockmover wrasse

    Scientific name: Novaculichthys taeniourus
19. 
    Common name: Longnose hawkfish

    Scientific name: Oxycirrhites typus
20. 
    Common name: Arc-eye hawkfish

    Scientific name: Paracirrhites arcatus
21. 
    Common name: Blackside hawkfish

    Scientific name: Paracirrhites forsteri
22. 
    Common name: Whitespot hawkfish

    Scientific name: Paracirrhites hemistictus
23. 
    Common name: Hawkfish

    Scientific name: Paracirrhites nisus
24. Common name: Xanthus Hawkfish

    Scientific name: Paracirrhites xanthus
25. Common name: Shy soldier

    Scientific name: Plectrypops lima
26. 
    Common name: Sunburst Anthias

    Scientific name: Serranocirrhitus latus