Common name: Coral hawkfish

General information

The Pixy Hawkfish, also known as the Coral Hawkfish or Spotted Hawkfish, is a small, colorful fish that is popular among reef aquarium enthusiasts. Its scientific name is Cirrhitichthys oxycephalus, and it belongs to the family Cirrhitidae. This species is known for its distinctive spotted pattern and the tufts of cirri on the tips of its dorsal fin spines.

Pixy Hawkfish are generally hardy and can be a good choice for both novice and experienced aquarists. They are known for their curious nature and tendency to perch on coral branches or rockwork, observing their surroundings.

Care

In the aquarium, Pixy Hawkfish require a well-established tank with plenty of live rock for perching and hiding. They are carnivorous and should be fed a varied diet of meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood. Care should be taken if housing them with small shrimp or other small invertebrates, as they may prey on them.

Reproduction

Reproduction in the Pixy Hawkfish has not been well documented in home aquariums. In the wild, they are known to be egg-layers, with the male guarding the eggs until they hatch.

Habitat

The natural habitat of the Pixy Hawkfish includes coral reefs and lagoons in the Indo-Pacific region. They are typically found at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 30 meters. Their geographical distribution spans from the Red Sea and East Africa to the central Pacific, including the Great Barrier Reef and the islands of Micronesia.