Flame Hawkfish (Neocirrhitus Armatus)
Species Name : Neocirrhitus Armatus
Care Level : Easy
Temperament : Semi-aggressive
Color : Red, Orange, Black
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 : 4»
Origin : Pacific Ocean
Family : Cirrhitidae
Minimum Tank Size : 30 gallons
The Flame Hawkfish (Neocirrhitus Armatus) also known as the Brilliant Red Hawkfish, Red Hawkfish and the Flame Hawk.
Flame Hawkfish get their name for their flame, bright red, or red-orange scales and fins. They have a head-to-tail black stripe down the back that looks like a mohawk. Black also surrounds the eyes in a ring, giving the impression of a hawk bird with black-banded eyes. Hawkfish are an extremely hardy and disease-resistant species able to adapt to a wide range of aquarium conditions. The fish prefer coral that is a similar color to its body as a way to provide cover or camouflage.
It requires a 30 gallon or larger aquarium with plenty of live rock for structure and hiding. They should be provided with enough rocks and crevices to provide hiding space since when first introduced to the tank this pygmy angelfish tends to be shy. It is suggested to provide the Flame Hawkfish with constant moving and well oxygenated water in the reef aquarium.
Flame Hawkfish are typically peaceful but will quarrel with members of their own species and even genus. It may become aggressive towards other smaller community fish and will likely attack any invertebrates such as smaller ornamental Shrimp.
Neocirrhitus Armatus like other angelfish belonging to the genus Centropyge are protogynous hermaphrodites.
Flame Hawkfish are omnivores feeding mainly on invertebrates and algae. Diet in captivity may include frozen mysis shrimp and Spirulina algae. Angelfish food preparations, pellets, and other frozed food products may be fed to these angels.
Size: 1-1/2" to 2-1/2"