Falco's Hawkfish (Cirrhitichthys falco) Care Guide
Cirrhitichthys falco, the dwarf or Falco's hawkfish, is a small Indo-Pacific reef fish that perches on coral and ambushes small prey.
Overview
Cirrhitichthys falco, the dwarf hawkfish or Falco's hawkfish, is a small marine fish of the family Cirrhitidae. It was described by John Ernest Randall in 1963 from the Davao Gulf, Philippines. It perches on coral heads and the reef bottom, spreading its thickened pectoral fins, and ambushes small prey. FishBase records a maximum total length of 8.0 cm.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cirrhitidae
- Genus: Cirrhitichthys
- Scientific name: Cirrhitichthys falco
- Described by John Ernest Randall in 1963
Habitat
The species ranges across the Indo-Pacific from the Maldives to Samoa, north to the Ryukyu Islands and south to the southern Great Barrier Reef and New Caledonia. It occurs on shallow coastal to outer reef flats and slopes, usually resting at the base of coral heads. FishBase gives a depth range of 4 to 46 m, typically 10 to 20 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
Cirrhitichthys falco is carnivorous, with a FishBase trophic level of 4.0. It feeds on fish larvae, small crustaceans and other benthic invertebrates. In captivity it accepts meaty marine foods offered about twice daily.
Compatibility
This bottom-perching, semi-aggressive species does not school. It suits robust tankmates such as tangs, wrasses and triggers. Ornamental shrimp, small invertebrates and very small fish may be eaten and should be avoided.
Breeding
The species is a protogynous hermaphrodite. Dominant males maintain harems, females can become males as harems grow, and males may revert to female form if challenged. It is a haremic, nightly pelagic spawner. Captive breeding is regarded as expert-level.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 2015).