Fin's Fish Guide
The Blotched hawkfish (Cirrhitichthys aprinus) is a brackish-water fish of the family Cirrhitidae that grows up to 13 cm.
Description
The spotted hawkfish is a hawkfish (Cirrhitidae) from the Indo-West Pacific. The species has a pale body with red-brown blotches and small tufts (cirri) on the tips of the dorsal fin spines. Like all hawkfishes it lacks a swim bladder and props itself on coral and rock with its thickened lower pectoral fin rays, where it sits motionless on the lookout. It inhabits rocky and coral-rich coastal reefs and sometimes enters harbours and estuaries. As an ambush hunter it springs on small crustaceans and small fishes. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blotched hawkfish?
The Blotched hawkfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly white and shows a spots pattern. Tassels on the dorsal fin spines; lacking a swim bladder it rests on coral and waits for prey.
Where does the Blotched hawkfish live?
The Blotched hawkfish lives in brackish water and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific; rocky and coral-rich coastal reefs.
How big does the Blotched hawkfish get?
The Blotched hawkfish grows to a maximum of about 13 cm.
Is the Blotched hawkfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Blotched hawkfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Blotched hawkfish edible?
The Blotched hawkfish 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 Cirrhitichthys
More from the family Cirrhitidae
Want the complete picture on the Blotched hawkfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blotched hawkfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.