Arc-Eye Hawkfish (Paracirrhites arcatus) Care Guide
Named for the distinctive arc-shaped orange and blue marking behind its eye, this hawkfish displays variable coloration from orange-brown to pinkish.
Overview
Paracirrhites arcatus is a species in the family Cirrhitidae. Named for the distinctive arc-shaped orange and blue marking behind its eye, this hawkfish displays variable coloration from orange-brown to pinkish. Like all hawkfish, it lacks a swim bladder and perches on coral heads, darting out to grab passing prey. Hardy and adaptable but will eat small ornamental shrimp and tiny fish.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cirrhitidae
- Genus: Paracirrhites
- Scientific name: Paracirrhites arcatus
- Origin: Indo-Pacific
Habitat
Widely distributed across the Indo-Pacific from East Africa to the Hawaiian, Pitcairn and Easter Islands. Perches on coral heads, predominantly Pocillopora, on outer reef slopes at depths of 1-15 m, ambushing small fish and crustaceans. Easily recognised by the iridescent "arc" of red, blue and white around each eye.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 120 L
- Temperature: 24-27 °C
- pH: 8.1-8.4
- GH: 8-12 °dGH
- Water flow: moderate
- Adult size: 10-14 cm
- Lifespan: 5-10 years
- Difficulty: beginner
Diet
Classified as carnivore. Recommended feeding frequency: 2x daily. In captivity, offer a varied diet appropriate to the species — quality prepared foods supplemented with frozen or live items of suitable size.
Compatibility
- Temperament: semi-aggressive
- Swimming level: bottom
- Compatible tank mates: Clownfish, Tangs, Large Wrasses, Angelfish
- Avoid with: Small Shrimp, Small Gobies, Other Hawkfish
Reef compatibility
Generally classified as reef-safe with caution: may opportunistically pick at small ornamental shrimps, sessile invertebrates or, in some individuals, polyps. Suitability depends on the specific reef stock.
Breeding
- Breeding strategy: egg-scatterer
- Breeding difficulty: advanced