Falco's Hawkfish (Cirrhitichthys falco)

Fish in the family Cirrhitidae. Moderate care. Reef Safe with Caution.

Falco's Hawkfish

Quick facts

Scientific nameCirrhitichthys falco
FamilyCirrhitidae
Care levelModerate
Reef safetyReef Safe with Caution
TemperamentSemi Aggressive
Dietcarnivore
Adult size9 in
Minimum tank size70 gallons
Water parametersTemperature: 72-78°F pH: 8.1-8.3 Salinity: 1.02-1.026
Feeding schedule1-2 times daily

Appearance

Falco's Hawkfish has a robust body with a mix of red, orange, and white coloration, characterized by bold stripes or bands across the head and body. The fish has a prominent cirri (barbel-like filaments) above the eyes and along the dorsal fin. It grows to approximately 9 inches and has a stocky build typical of cirrhitid hawkfishes.

Diet and feeding

Feed a varied diet of high-quality frozen or fresh meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, bloodworms, and chopped squid. Small live or frozen copepods and amphipods are also readily accepted. Feed 1–2 times daily in quantities the fish can consume in a few minutes.

Difficulty and care for the Falco's Hawkfish

Moderate - Requires some experience due to specific dietary water or tank requirements. Best suited for intermediate aquarists.

Common health issues

Marine Ich, Fin Rot, Swim Bladder Disease, Bacterial Infections, Parasitic Infestations

Origin and habitat

Indo-Pacific region from the Red Sea and East Africa eastward through the Indian Ocean and across the Pacific to the Hawaiian Islands and French Polynesia, typically found in coral-rich reef environments at depths of 10–60 meters.

Log Falco's Hawkfish in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Falco's Hawkfish alongside everything else in your reef.