Common name: Whitespot hawkfish
General information
The Halfspotted Hawkfish, scientifically known as Paracirrhites hemistictus, is a distinctive species known for its unique coloration and behavior. This species is characterized by its mottled brown and white body, with a distinctive half-black, half-white pattern on the dorsal fin. They are a benthic species, often found perching on coral branches or rockwork, observing their surroundings with keen eyes.
Hawkfishes in general are known for their lack of swim bladders, which allows them to rest on the substrate or corals. This particular species is not as common in the aquarium trade as some other hawkfishes, but it can be a fascinating addition for experienced aquarists who appreciate its unique appearance and interesting behavior.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 200 liter (53 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 22 to 26 °C (72 to 79 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 18 cm (7″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy
- Diet
- Carnivore
- Social
- Solo
- Reefsafe
- No May nip at small fish/inverts
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive Territorial, especially with conspecifics
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyHawkfishesCirrhitidae
- GenusHawkfishParacirrhites
- SpeciesWhitespot hawkfishParacirrhites hemistictus (Günther, 1874)
- SynonymsCirrhites hemistictus Günther, 1874Cirrhites polystictus Günther, 1874Paracirrhites polystictus (Günther, 1874)Paracitthites hemistictus (Günther, 1874)Parracirrhites hemistictus (Günther, 1874)
Care
Halfspotted Hawkfish require a well-established aquarium 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 when housing them with small shrimp or crabs, as they may prey on these invertebrates.
These fish are generally hardy, but they can be territorial, especially towards conspecifics or similar-looking fish. It's best to keep them as the only hawkfish in the tank unless the aquarium is large enough to provide ample space for multiple territories.
Reproduction
In the wild, Halfspotted Hawkfish are oviparous, with females releasing eggs into the water column to be fertilized by males. In the aquarium, breeding is rare, but with careful attention to water quality and diet, it is possible for hobbyists to witness spawning behavior.
Habitat
Paracirrhites hemistictus is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the central Pacific. They typically inhabit coral reefs and rocky outcrops, often at depths ranging from 1 to 30 meters. Their preference for perching atop corals makes them a natural fit for reef aquariums that replicate their natural environment.