Falco Hawkfish (Cirrhitichthys Falco)

Species Name : Cirrhitichthys Falco 

Care Level : Easy

Temperament : Semi-aggressive

Color : Red, Tan, White, Yellow

Diet : Carnivore

Reef Compatible : With Caution

Water Conditions : sg 1.020-1.025, 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4

Max. Size : 3"

Origin : Fiji, Indonesia, New Caledonia

Family : Cirrhitidae

Minimum Tank Size : 30 gallons

The Falco Hawkfish (Cirrhitichthys Falco) is named due to its habit of perching on coral, from which it swoops out and snags its prey.

This very unique looking Hawkfish is white with red-brown spots that run diagonally along the body. They have small tufts of bright yellow on the tips of their dorsal fin ray called cirri. These tufts could easily be mistaken for coral polyps and, in addition to the blotchy coloration, serve to camouflage the species among invertebrates on the reef. This fish does not swim very well (it does not have a swim bladder). It moves more waddling than actually swimming, which is very fun to watch. Cirrhitichthys Falco is a small hawkfish species, reaching just under 3 inches in maximum length.

A 30 gallon or larger aquarium with plenty of hiding places is acceptable for this hardy and aggressive fish. The aquarium should contain plenty of hiding places, and live stony and soft coral colonies. The Falco Hawkfish may jump from an aquarium so it should be kept in a tank with a covered lid over it to avoid any unnecessary accidents. 

It should not be kept with larger more aggressive hawkfish. The Falco Hawkfish should not be kept with smaller nonaggressive fishes like neon gobies, small anthias, small wrasses etc. Will also likely eat ornamental shrimps, small crabs and other small crustaceans. 

This species can change gender from female to male. When a male is needed, a female changes sex and takes on the role.

Most Hawkfish will readily adapt to aquarium foods, which should include a thawed carnivorous mix. In nature, Cirrhitichthys Falco  feeds primarily on very small crustaceans, so items like mysis shrimp, various finely chopped seafoods, and commercial formulations for smaller carnivores will make good substitutes in the aquarium.