Hawkfish Care Guide

Hawkfish get their name from their habit of perching on rock or coral and watching for food, much like a hawk surveying its territory, rather than swimming constantly like many reef fish.

Tank Requirements

Provide plenty of rockwork or coral perches for hawkfish to rest on between feedings — this behavior is completely normal, not a sign of illness.

Reef Compatibility

Most hawkfish are reef-safe with coral but may eat small ornamental shrimp and other small invertebrates, so research compatibility if you keep a shrimp-heavy clean-up crew.

Diet

Hawkfish are carnivorous, readily accepting frozen mysis, brine shrimp, and other meaty prepared foods.

Temperament

Hawkfish are generally peaceful but can be territorial toward other bottom-perching fish of similar size.

Browse our hawkfish selection, including the Spotted Hawkfish.