Freckled Hawkfish

The Freckled Hawkfish, also known as Forster's Hawkfish, is a robust, characterful predator ranging widely across the Indo-Pacific from the Red Sea to Hawaii. Lacking a swim bladder, it perches motionless on coral heads and rockwork, then darts out to ambush prey with a burst of speed. It is a carnivore that readily hunts small fish, ornamental shrimp and crabs, so it is not safe with diminutive tankmates or prized invertebrates. Bold and semi-aggressive, it may bully smaller or more timid fish and is best kept singly unless a proven pair is obtained. Provide plenty of stony perches and open water, salinity 33-35 ppt, pH 8.1-8.4 and stable temperatures near 25°C. It is coral-safe, hardy and undemanding to feed, accepting most meaty marine foods. A secure lid is wise, as it can jump. Excellent for a robust fish-focused reef.