Cirrhitichthys aprinus

Cirrhitichthys aprinus: the Spotted Hawkfish, Discreet and Elegant

The Cirrhitichthys aprinus, also known as the spotted hawkfish or red-spotted hawk, is a small, peaceful, and observant reef fish belonging to the Cirrhitidae family. Native to the coral reefs of Southeast Asia and Oceania, it is often found perched on branching corals, where it likes to watch over its surroundings.

The body of the Cirrhitichthys aprinus is sturdy, oval, and white in color, sprinkled with irregular red spots on the sides, head, and back. It grows to up to 10 cm in adulthood. Its dorsal fin is adorned with characteristic cirri, while its pelvic and caudal fins are translucent. These attributes, along with its calm demeanor, make it a highly appreciated fish in reef aquariums.

A Calm and Sedentary Behavior

The spotted hawkfish is calm, discreet, and sedentary. It often chooses a fixed perch in the scenery, usually a branching coral, flat stone, or elevated structure. From this spot, it observes its environment and leaps towards prey or moves to change its position.

In aquariums, it is compatible with a peaceful population consisting of non-aggressive fish. It is territorial towards its own kind or other hawkfish, so it is preferable to keep it alone, or as a pair in larger tanks. It is also advised not to keep it with small ornamental shrimps, which it might consume.

A Calm Environment with Resting Zones

The Cirrhitichthys aprinus thrives in an aquarium of at least 150 liters, well-decorated with live rock, branching corals, and elevated areas. This type of setup allows it to replicate its natural watchful behavior, perched on a stable support.

It is not a strong swimmer and does not require strong water currents. A moderate flow and good oxygenation are sufficient for its well-being. It coexists well with corals and does not damage their tissues, making it perfect for mixed reef aquariums.

An Easy-to-Satisfy Carnivorous Diet

The Cirrhitichthys aprinus is an opportunistic carnivore. In aquariums, it readily accepts:

• Frozen or live mysis, krill, and brine shrimp,
• Small pieces of seafood (mussels, shrimp, white fish),
• Sinking carnivorous pellets, if accustomed to dry food.

It is advisable to feed it once or twice a day, near its resting area. Since it is not fast, care should be taken to ensure it has enough time to eat properly in a community tank.

An Endearing Fish for a Calm Reef Tank

The Cirrhitichthys aprinus is an ideal fish for aquarists seeking a composed, intelligent, and discreet behavior. Its white body dotted with red spots, bright gaze, and watchful attitude make it an original and uncommon resident.

Easy to feed, very resilient once acclimated, and perfectly compatible with corals, the spotted hawkfish is an excellent option for decorated reef tanks from 150 liters, provided very small mobile invertebrates are avoided.