Fin's Fish Guide
The Blackside hawkfish (Paracirrhites forsteri) is a saltwater fish of the family Cirrhitidae that grows up to 22 cm.
Description
Forster's hawkfish is a hawkfish of the family Cirrhitidae from the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 22 cm and occurs in many colour morphs, usually with a dense speckling of red-brown dots on head and forebody and often a pale or dark longitudinal band. Hawkfishes lack a swim bladder and rest on their thick, stiff lower pectoral rays, with which they 'perch' on coral branches and rocks in clear lagoon and seaward reefs. As an ambush predator it lies still and darts forward to seize small fishes and crustaceans. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blackside hawkfish?
The Blackside hawkfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a spots pattern. Dense red-brown head speckling; 'sits' on stiff pectoral fin rays on coral and darts forward as an ambush predator.
Where does the Blackside hawkfish live?
The Blackside hawkfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific; clear lagoon and seaward coral reefs.
How big does the Blackside hawkfish get?
The Blackside hawkfish grows to a maximum of about 22 cm. On average the species is around 18 cm.
Is the Blackside hawkfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Blackside hawkfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Blackside hawkfish edible?
The Blackside hawkfish is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Paracirrhites
More from the family Cirrhitidae
Want the complete picture on the Blackside hawkfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blackside hawkfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.