Common name: Longnose hawkfish
General information
The Longnose Hawkfish, Oxycirrhites typus, is a distinctive species known for its elongated snout and striking coloration. It is a popular choice among aquarists due to its unique appearance and interesting behavior. This species is not as common as some other hawkfish, making it a prized addition to many aquariums.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 150 liter (40 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
- 13 cm (5″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Needs hiding spots & live food
- Diet
- Carnivore Prefers live foods like shrimp
- Social
- Solo Can be territorial, best kept alone
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive May be aggressive to small fish
- Captive bred
- No
- Conservation statusSource: IUCN Red List
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyHawkfishesCirrhitidae
- GenusLongnose HawkfishOxycirrhites
- SpeciesLongnose hawkfishOxycirrhites typus Bleeker, 1857
- SynonymsOxycirrhitus typus Bleeker, 1857
Care
Longnose Hawkfish require a well-established aquarium with plenty of live rock for perching and hunting. They are carnivorous and prefer a diet of meaty foods such as small fish, crustaceans, and prepared frozen foods. Care should be taken when housing them with small shrimp or fish, as they may become prey.
Reproduction
In the wild, Longnose Hawkfish are solitary and come together only to breed. Breeding in captivity is rare, and there is little information on their reproductive habits in home aquariums.
Symbiosis
While not known for a specific symbiotic relationship like clownfish with anemones, Longnose Hawkfish often associate with large-polyped stony corals and gorgonians in the wild. They use these structures as vantage points to spot prey and as shelter from predators.
Habitat
Oxycirrhites typus is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the central Pacific. Their natural habitat includes steep outer reef slopes and drop-offs, typically at depths ranging from 10 to 100 meters. They are often observed perched on corals or sponges, scanning for food.