Redspotted Hawkfish (Amblycirrhitus pinos) Care Guide
Amblycirrhitus pinos is a small western Atlantic hawkfish of rocky reefs that feeds on small crustaceans and shelters in crevices.
Overview
Amblycirrhitus pinos, the redspotted hawkfish, is a small marine fish of the family Cirrhitidae and the only hawkfish widely distributed in the western Atlantic. It has a whitish body with brownish vertical bands and numerous red spots on the head and body. FishBase records a maximum standard length of 9.5 cm.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cirrhitidae
- Genus: Amblycirrhitus
- Scientific name: Amblycirrhitus pinos
- Described by Louis L. Mowbray in 1927
Habitat
The species occurs in the western Atlantic from southern Florida and the Gulf of Mexico through the Caribbean to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, with an eastern Atlantic record at St. Helena. It is moderately common in rocky areas and rubble, frequently occupying crevices and shallow caves and resting on the substrate. FishBase gives a depth range of 2 to 46 m.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 200 L (about 53 gal)
- Temperature: 24-26 °C (75-79 °F)
- pH: 8.1-8.4
- Carbonate hardness / GH range: 8-12 °dGH
- Lifespan: 5-10 years
Diet
Amblycirrhitus pinos is carnivorous, with a FishBase trophic level of 3.2. It feeds mainly on small crustaceans, including copepods, shrimps, crabs and their larvae, as well as polychaete worms. In captivity it accepts meaty marine foods offered about twice daily.
Compatibility
This is a bottom-perching, semi-aggressive species that does not school and is relatively small for a hawkfish. It is best kept with robust tankmates such as tangs, wrasses and triggers. Ornamental shrimp and small invertebrates may be eaten and should be avoided.
Breeding
Amblycirrhitus pinos is a pelagic spawner. According to FishBase, protogyny has not been definitively established for this species. Captive breeding is regarded as expert-level.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 2014).