Arc Eye Hawkfish (Paracirrhites Arcatus)

Size: only S, M

Species Name : Paracirrhites Arcatus

Care Level : Easy

Temperament : Aggressive

Color : Blue, Orange, White

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 : 6"

Origin : Indo-Pacific

Family : Cirrhitidae

Minimum Tank Size : 30 gallons

The Arc Eye Hawkfish (Paracirrhites Arcatus), also known as the Archeye Hawkfish, is widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific region.

Hawkfish, are named for their behaviour of perching themselves in strategic raised locations on the reef. From there they view their territory and pounce down at a surprising speed on unsuspecting prey, just as a  hawk would.

Paracirrhites Arcatus grows to a maximum size of 20 cm in length, and occurs in a variety of colors. The body of an Arc Eye Hawkfish may be greenish-brown, dark brown or reddish-orange with a broad, longitudinal white band along the distal half of the body. The tail is a blueish color. They have large heads with somewhat elongated bodies and the dorsal fins are merged. They have a distinctive orange arched marking around and behind the eye. The tails are rounded and truncated.

A 30 gallon or larger aquarium provides a good environment. It is primarily a perching fish that will spend lots of its time atop live rock, so plenty should be present.

This species can be extremely aggressive towards other fish. Be careful when keeping these fish together with peaceful or docile species. It should be the last fish introduced into the tank community. It becomes very territorial, and will harass new additions to the tank including other hawkfish and larger fish. The Arc Eye Hawkfish does not bother corals but will eat ornamental shrimps, crabs, and may harass smaller fishes.

It forms territorial harems, with one male defending a territory with multiple females and juveniles. This species can change gender from female to male. When a male is needed, a female changes sex and takes on the role. A pair may be kept in a tank but it should be a confirmed pair before they are put in a tank together.

This fish is a predatory carnivore, as its name suggests. The Arc Eye Hawkfish diet in an aquarium should include a variety of marine meats, frozen preparations, and live feeder shrimp.

Size: Small: 1" to 2"; Medium: 2" to 3"; Large: 3" to 5"