Fin's Fish Guide
The Banded hawk (Cirrhitops fasciatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Cirrhitidae that grows up to 13 cm.
Description
The redbarred hawkfish is a hawkfish from the Indian Ocean and around Hawaii. The species grows to about 13 cm and has a red-and-white banded body with tufts on the tips of the dorsal-fin spines. As a typical hawkfish it lacks a swim bladder and perches with its pectoral fins on coral and rock, from where it darts at passing small crustaceans and fish. The fish is harmless to humans and appears in the reef aquarium. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Banded hawk?
The Banded hawk has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Tassels on the dorsal fin spines; rests on coral as an ambush predator
Where does the Banded hawk live?
The Banded hawk lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indian Ocean and Hawaii
How big does the Banded hawk get?
The Banded hawk grows to a maximum of about 13 cm.
Is the Banded hawk dangerous to humans?
No, the Banded hawk is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Banded hawk edible?
The Banded hawk is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Cirrhitops
More from the family Cirrhitidae
Want the complete picture on the Banded hawk?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Banded hawk is one of 12,519 species in the app.