Hawkfish

Hawkfish are an exciting fish breed to keep in a saltwater aquarium. They will certainly add color and uniqueness to your tank. Hawkfish are also interesting as they are protogynous hermaphrodites. This means that females can change into a male, which generally occurs if a dominant male dies.

Some popular species of this beautiful fish to keep in an aquarium are the Flame Hawkfish, Longnose Hawkfish and Arcete Hawkfish. Of these, the Flame Hawkfish is particularly beautiful.

Flame Hawkfish

The Flame Hawkfish is a larger fish, with the biggest measured one coming in at 9cm long. They look spectacular, with bright red on the body and some black under the dorsal fin. Commonly adults have roundish bodies that are quite high, with a dorsal fin that reaches back to the tail fin, while younger growing Flame Hawkfish are more slender.

Caring for the Flame Hawkfish is a bit tricky, so perhaps they are not the best saltwater aquarium fish for beginners. If you provide the right environment for them they will thrive beautifully, if not, you may have some challenges on your hands.

The Flame Hawkfish needs well oxygenated water. They prefer corals around the bottom of your marine tank, as this is where the Flame spends most of its time. Optimal water temperature for the Flame Hawkfish is 75-80 degrees F, which works out to 24-27 degrees C.

Flame Hawkfish are carnivores and will eat frozen or live food. Small fish and small crustaceans are good choices. Since they need a protein rich diet, brine shrimp is another good addition.

Hawkfish can be an excellent species to keep in your saltwater aquarium. Once you are experienced with optimizing your water conditions and maintaining it in the proper condition for this fish, you will be rewarded with great results in your marine aquarium.