Fin's Fish Guide
The Giant hawkfish (Cirrhitus rivulatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Cirrhitidae that grows up to 60 cm.
Description
The giant hawkfish is the largest hawkfish of the family Cirrhitidae from the eastern Pacific. The species grows to about 60 cm and has a stocky, olive-green to brown body with a net or marble pattern of blue and brown lines. Hawkfishes lack a swim bladder and rest on their thick, stiff lower pectoral rays, with which they perch motionless on the bottom among rocks. As an ambush predator it lies still in wait and darts forward suddenly to seize small fishes and crustaceans. The giant hawkfish is a local food fish and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Giant hawkfish?
The Giant hawkfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly green and shows a marbled pattern. Largest hawkfish; rests on stiff lower pectoral fin rays and darts forward as an ambush predator.
Where does the Giant hawkfish live?
The Giant hawkfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Eastern Pacific; rocky reefs of shallow coastal waters.
How big does the Giant hawkfish get?
The Giant hawkfish grows to a maximum of about 60 cm.
Is the Giant hawkfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Giant hawkfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Giant hawkfish edible?
Yes, the Giant hawkfish is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Cirrhitus
More from the family Cirrhitidae
Want the complete picture on the Giant hawkfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Giant hawkfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.