Genus

Common name: Hawkfish

Scientific name: Cirrhitus

The genus Cirrhitus is part of the hawkfish family Cirrhitidae. These small, colorful fish are known for their distinctive pectoral fins that are not fully connected, allowing them to 'perch' on corals and rocks. They have a unique hunting style, waiting motionless before pouncing on prey. Hawkfish are generally hardy and can be a good choice for a reef aquarium, but they may prey on small shrimp and other tiny invertebrates. They lack a swim bladder, which is why they prefer to rest on the substrate or coral branches.

  1. Common name: West African hawkfish
    Scientific name: Cirrhitus atlanticus
  2. Close-up portrait of a stocky hawkfish (Cirrhitus pinnulatus); Maui, Hawaii, United States of America
    Common name: Stocky hawkfish
    Scientific name: Cirrhitus pinnulatus
  3. Giant Hawkfish
    Common name: Giant hawkfish
    Scientific name: Cirrhitus rivulatus