Care
The Coral Hawkfish is known from the coral-rich areas of clearwater lagoons, channels, and seaward reefs, from below the surge line to depths of 40m (131ft). Here they are found resting beneath hard and soft corals, feeding on crustaceans and small fishes that pass by. These inquisitive fish, with their red blotches and beautiful dorsal tassels, are hardy and adapt well to aquarium life. Provide a good open expanse of sandy substrate, as well as plenty of rocky caves for the fish to take refuge in. As with other hawkfish, these fish lack swimbladders, and are readily found 'hopping' from place to place and perching in a hawk-like fashion on corals or rubble. This is a confident and somewhat pugnacious species which should be the last fish added to the aquarium; males can be especially territorial. Keep only one per tank, and not with any other hawkfish species. Avoid keeping with crustaceans and small/ shy/docile fish species such as dottybacks, firefish, gobies, grammas, and even dwarf angelfish and small butterflyfish. Tankmates should be of similar size and temperament, and ensure that there are a decent number of visual barriers amongst the decor. Make certain that the tank is well covered, as these fish are accomplished jumpers and can dart upwards with incredibly powerful bursts of speed. Also known as the Pixy Hawkfish.
Feeding
Meaty frozen foods such as vitamin/Spirulina-enriched brineshrimp, Mysis shrimp, chopped krill/squid/cockle/mussel, plus copepods. Feed small amounts 3 times per day.
Breeding
This pelagic spawner has not been bred in the home aquarium. In the wild, one male typically controls a harem of several females. Pairs ascend the water column to spawn just prior to sunset.
