Fin's Fish Guide
The Spottedtail hawkfish (Cirrhitichthys calliurus) is a saltwater fish of the family Cirrhitidae that grows up to 12 cm.
Description
The spottedtail hawkfish is a hawkfish (Cirrhitidae) from reef water of the Indo-West Pacific. The species grows to about 8 cm and has a stocky, white to red-spotted body with thickened, undivided lower pectoral rays with which it perches motionless on coral and rock as if on legs. From that lookout it darts out at small crustaceans and small fish. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Spottedtail hawkfish?
The Spottedtail hawkfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a spots pattern.
Where does the Spottedtail hawkfish live?
The Spottedtail hawkfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Asia: Oman, Viet Nam, Yemen, Socotra Arch.
How big does the Spottedtail hawkfish get?
The Spottedtail hawkfish grows to a maximum of about 12 cm.
Is the Spottedtail hawkfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Spottedtail hawkfish 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.
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Spottedtail hawkfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
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 Spottedtail hawkfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Spottedtail hawkfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.