Freckled Hawkfish

The freckled hawkfish, Paracirrhites forsteri, watches its surroundings from resting places among the rockwork. The freckles around its face are characteristic, while the rest of its pattern can vary with age and individual colour form.

Provide firm ledges, branching structure and caves so it can perch at different heights. Feed varied marine meaty foods in portions it can capture readily. Its habit of sitting still should not be mistaken for a fish that needs little food or no territory.

Small fish and ornamental crustaceans are potential prey. This hawkfish may become forceful toward new arrivals as it matures, including fish larger than itself. Choose a community able to tolerate its territorial behaviour and retain a practical way to separate incompatible residents.