Threadfin Hawkfish (Cirrhitichthys aprinus)
Fish in the family Cirrhitidae. Moderate care. Reef Safe with Caution.
Quick facts
Appearance
The Threadfin Hawkfish is a small, robust fish with a stocky body reaching about 4 inches in length. It displays mottled red, orange, and white coloration with distinctive black bands or stripes across the head and body. A key identifying feature is the presence of cirri (thread-like filaments) on the dorsal fin rays, which give the species its common name.
Diet and feeding
Feed small meaty foods including frozen mysis shrimp, small pieces of fish, and copepods. In established reef aquaria with natural prey populations, supplemental feeding 1-2 times daily is often sufficient; provide 2-3 small feedings daily in systems with limited live food.
Difficulty and care for the Threadfin Hawkfish
Moderate - Requires some experience due to specific dietary water or tank requirements. Best suited for intermediate aquarists.
Common health issues
Parasitic infections, head and lateral line erosion (HLLE), injury from aggression
Origin and habitat
Indo-Pacific region, ranging from East Africa and the Red Sea through the Indian Ocean to the central Pacific, including Hawaii and the Great Barrier Reef.
Log Threadfin 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 Threadfin Hawkfish alongside everything else in your reef.
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