Falco Hawkfish

The Falco Hawkfish, also known as the Dwarf Hawkfish or Spotted Hawkfish, is a captivating addition to a home aquarium. Its body is typically a mottled reddish-brown to white, adorned with distinct dark spots that extend onto its fins. A prominent feature is the fringe of cirri (small fleshy filaments) above its eyes, giving it a perpetually curious expression.

Reaching a maximum size of around 3 inches in the aquarium, the Falco Hawkfish is well-suited for smaller to medium-sized tanks, with a minimum recommendation of 30 gallons. Provide plenty of live rock with crevices and overhangs, as these fish are ambush predators and enjoy perching to survey their surroundings. While generally peaceful towards tankmates of a similar size, they may exhibit aggression towards smaller, passive fish or ornamental shrimp. They are not considered reef-safe as they may nip at small invertebrates.

The Falco Hawkfish is a carnivorous species and readily accepts a varied diet of meaty foods. Offer a mix of high-quality frozen foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and chopped seafood. They may also accept marine pellets or flakes once acclimated. Feed small amounts multiple times a day. Sexing the Falco Hawkfish is difficult, and breeding in a home aquarium is not commonly reported.

Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Cirrhitichthys falco
• Care Level: Beginner
• Temperament: Semi-Aggressive
• Diet: Carnivore
• Reef Compatibility: Reef Safe
• Region of Origin: Indo-Pacific
• Maximum Adult Size: 8"
• Recommended Tank Size: 30 gallons