Fin's Fish Guide
The Coral hawkfish (Cirrhitichthys oxycephalus) is a saltwater fish of the family Cirrhitidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
The coral hawkfish is a small hawkfish of the family Cirrhitidae from the Indo-Pacific and eastern Pacific. The species grows to about 10 cm and has a whitish body with numerous red-brown blotches and fringes (cirri) on the tips of the dorsal spines. 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 water of lagoon and seaward reefs. As an ambush predator it lies still and darts forward to seize small crustaceans and small fishes. The species is popular in the marine aquarium and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Coral hawkfish?
The Coral hawkfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly white and shows a spots pattern. Red-brown blotched; 'sits' on stiff pectoral fin rays on coral and darts forward as an ambush predator.
Where does the Coral hawkfish live?
The Coral hawkfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific and eastern Pacific; coral-rich lagoon and seaward reefs.
How big does the Coral hawkfish get?
The Coral hawkfish grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Coral hawkfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Coral hawkfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Coral hawkfish edible?
The Coral 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 Coral hawkfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Coral hawkfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.