Paracirrhites arcatus 5-7 cm

Paracirrhites arcatus: the Arc Eye Hawkfish, Solid and Majestic

The Paracirrhites arcatus, known as the Arc Eye Hawkfish, is a robust, colorful, and territorial reef fish, highly valued for its adaptability and typical Cirrhitidae behavior. Native to the coral reefs of the Indian and Pacific Oceans, it primarily inhabits branching corals and rocky overhangs where it perches, motionless, waiting for its prey.

The body of the Paracirrhites arcatus is stout and elongated, covered in a brown to reddish robe, marked by a characteristic clear arc starting from the eye and following the lateral line. A bright orange spot is often visible on the operculum. This species measures between 12 and 14 cm when fully grown.

A Calm but Territorial Behavior

The Arc Eye Hawkfish is territorial, solitary, and very calm. It patiently observes its environment from an elevated position, usually a branching coral or flat rock. It is incompatible with its conspecifics or other hawkfish, and should be kept alone by species in the same tank.

However, it coexists well with other calm and non-aggressive fish, as long as they do not disturb its territory. It is advisable to avoid small mobile invertebrates, particularly Lysmata or Thor shrimps, which it considers natural prey.

A Structured and Secure Environment from 300 Liters

The Paracirrhites arcatus requires an aquarium of at least 300 liters to express its natural behavior. The setup should include:

• A rocky decor with numerous elevated areas,
• Artificial or natural branching corals as observation posts,
• Moderate to strong water flow and well-oxygenated water.

It's important not to overcrowd the open swimming area to preserve its observation space. This fish stays close to its perch, making rare but efficient short movements.

A Carnivore with a Keen Eye

The Paracirrhites arcatus is a carnivore on the lookout, readily feeding on:

• Mysis, krill, artemia, either thawed or live,
• Small pieces of fish or shrimp, distributed with tweezers,
• Carnivorous pellets if well acclimated to dry food.

It is recommended to feed once or twice a day, placing the food near its observation areas, as this fish does not actively seek food far from its perch.

A Stable and Resilient Hawkfish for a Calm Reef

The Arc Eye Hawkfish is an excellent choice for a well-decorated and calm reef tank. Its observational behavior, subtly marked robe, and behavioral stability make it a fascinating fish to keep.

With a minimum of 300 liters, a structured decor, and suitable tank mates, the Paracirrhites arcatus becomes a solid, low-mobility but highly expressive inhabitant, perfect for intermediate to advanced aquarists.