Falco Hawkfish (Cirrhitichthys falco) – Quick Stats

• Care Level: Moderate
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive
• Diet: Carnivore
• Reef Safe: Yes
• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
• Max Size: Up to 4 inches
• Water Parameters: pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.020-1.025, Temperature 72-78°F

Comprehensive Guide: Falco Hawkfish (Cirrhitichthys falco)

Habitat

The Falco Hawkfish is found in the Indo-Pacific region, specifically in areas such as the Red Sea, Maldives, and Indonesia. It inhabits coral reefs and rocky areas, usually perching on branches or hiding in crevices.

Reef Safe

The Falco Hawkfish is considered reef-safe as it typically does not bother corals or other invertebrates. However, caution should be exercised when keeping it with tiny shrimps or ornamental crustaceans.

Size

The Falco Hawkfish can grow up to 4 inches long.

Temperament

This species has a semi-aggressive temperament. It may display territorial behavior and can be aggressive towards smaller or similarly shaped fish.

Sexual Dimorphism

There is no significant sexual dimorphism in the Falco Hawkfish. Males and females look similar in appearance.

Lifespan

The average lifespan of the Falco Hawkfish in captivity is around 5 to 8 years, but with proper care, it can live longer.

Diet in Aquariums

The Falco Hawkfish is a carnivorous species. It feeds on meaty foods such as small crustaceans, mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and chopped fish. Providing a varied diet is important to ensure its nutritional needs are met.

Aquascaping Recommendations

When setting up the aquarium for the Falco Hawkfish, provide plenty of hiding spots and perching areas. Use live rock to create caves, crevices, and ledges where the hawkfish can establish its territory and feel secure.

Captive Bred Availability

The Falco Hawkfish is not commonly available as captive-bred. Most specimens available in the aquarium trade are wild-caught.

Compatibility with Other Fish, Invertebrates, or Corals

The Falco Hawkfish can be kept in a larger aquarium with various peaceful to semi-aggressive fish species. It is generally compatible with most invertebrates and corals, but caution should be exercised when keeping it with tiny shrimps or ornamental crustaceans.

Five specific tankmates that can be good choices are:

1. Clownfish – They are peaceful and can help create a symbiotic relationship with the hawkfish.
2. Gobies – They occupy different tank areas and are generally compatible.
3. Damsels – Some species of damsels can coexist with the hawkfish if introduced properly.
4. Blennies – They have a similar temperament and can coexist peacefully.
5. Wrasses – Certain wrasse species can be compatible tankmates for the hawkfish.

Other Common Names

The Falco Hawkfish is also known by the common names of Freckled Hawkfish and Spotted Hawkfish.

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Popular Questions and Answers about the Falco Hawkfish (Cirrhitichthys falco)

1. What is the recommended tank size for the Falco Hawkfish?

The minimum tank size for the Falco Hawkfish is 30 gallons. However, providing a larger tank with ample swimming space benefits its well-being.

2. Can the Falco Hawkfish be kept in a reef aquarium?

The Falco Hawkfish is considered reef-safe and can be kept in a reef aquarium. It generally does not bother corals or other invertebrates.

3. How often should I feed my Falco Hawkfish?

It is recommended to feed the Falco Hawkfish 2-3 times a day, offering a variety of meaty foods suitable for its carnivorous diet.

4. Can the Falco Hawkfish be kept with aggressive fish species?

The Falco Hawkfish may not be suitable for tanks with highly aggressive fish species, as it can become stressed or targeted by more dominant tankmates.

5. What is the average lifespan of the Falco Hawkfish?

The average lifespan of the Falco Hawkfish in captivity is around 5 to 8 years, but with proper care, it can live longer.